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Planning a trip to Zagreb but not sure where to start? We can help!
Croatia’s capital is full of charm, but with so many historic sights, nearby natural wonders, and local spots, it can be overwhelming to plan the perfect visit. After exploring the city ourselves, we’ve figured out the best things to do, see, and eat, as well as what’s worth skipping.
Whether you want to learn about medieval or WWII history, see the famous St. Mark’s Church, or explore some of the most beautiful national parks in the world, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for insider tips and must-do activities to help you make the most of your time in Zagreb!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Zagreb was this war history tour! It dives into Croatia’s recent past, with powerful stories from WWII, the Yugoslav era under Tito, and the 1990s war.
Exploring on our own would’ve been overwhelming, so we were SO glad we booked this tour!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Zagreb
- 1. Learn about Old Zagreb with a private guide
- 2. Learn about Croatia’s communist and WWII history
- 3. Escape the city and spend a day in Plitvice Lakes National Park
- 4. See the city’s best sights on a bicycle tour
- 5. Visit the charming and historic Ljubljana and Bled Lake
- 6. Taste your way around Zagreb
- 7. See Baroque cities and medieval castles on a private tour to Varaždin
- 8. Explore Zagreb on a Segway
- Where to Stay in Zagreb, Croatia
- Thanks for reading!
- Stay safe in Europe & avoid scams!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in Europe
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Things to do in Zagreb
1. Learn about Old Zagreb with a private guide
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple times available from 8 am–8 pm
- Highlights: See all of Zagreb’s top sights with a private guide, such as St. Mark’s Square, Cathedral of Zagreb, Lotrscak Tower, and more
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, hotel pick up and drop off, local recommendations for restaurants, bars, and entertainment spots
- Rating: 5 stars (Check 240+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Zagreb is one of those cities with a rich, unique history that you need to know to fully appreciate — and trust us, wandering around without the backstory just isn’t the same. That’s why booking this private walking tour was such a great idea. Having a guide made all the difference between a day that was just okay and one that left us loving Zagreb even more.
We kicked things off in front of the Ban Josip Jelačić Monument, one of Zagreb’s most famous landmarks. From there, we set off on foot to explore the city’s highlights.
One of the coolest stops along the way was Stone Gate, a medieval gateway that is the city’s most important oath site and shrine. Locals still come here to light candles and say prayers, and we were lucky enough to see this ourselves.
Our favorite stop, though, was definitely Zagreb Cathedral. The sheer size and beauty of it are incredible. We loved learning how it’s been rebuilt several times, including after a massive earthquake in the 1800s and 2020.
What really made this tour stand out was how our guide brought each stop to life with stories, context, and little details we never would’ve picked up on our own. We walked away with a deeper connection to Zagreb—not just its sights, but its spirit!
It’s easy to see why this tour has over 240 5-star reviews—book it here!
2. Learn about Croatia’s communist and WWII history
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 3 pm and 4:30 pm
- Highlights: Learn how WWII and Communism changed Zagreb on an in-depth history tour, hear lesser-known stories about its past, and visit key locations in the city with a local guide
- Inclusions: Certified local guide, entrance to the WWII underground tunnels and basement used as a bomb shelter
- Rating: 5 stars (Check 1,090+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s one thing to visit a city, but it’s another to really understand what shaped it. Zagreb might seem peaceful and charming today, but its recent past is marked by wars and struggles that most visitors never hear about. Honestly, we had no idea how much Croatia had been through until we took this tour.
If you’re like us and want to go beyond just sightseeing to actually understanding the city’s history from WWII to the Croatian Homeland War, this is the perfect way to do it.
What we loved most was how it connected key moments from Zagreb’s past, from WWII to the Homeland War. We stopped at hidden bunkers, memorials, and other sites we would’ve missed on our own—each one brought to life through powerful stories.
One stop that really stood out was Tunel Grič, an underground passage built as a WWII bomb shelter and later used during the Homeland War. It’s open to the public now and sometimes used for events, but standing inside and imagining what it was like during wartime made a lasting impression.
What made this tour so great was how it helped us see Zagreb in a completely new light—beyond the pretty streets and into the stories that shaped them. It’s a side of the city you don’t want to miss. Just check out over one thousand glowing reviews here to see why this is a must-do in Croatia’s capital!
Don’t leave Zagreb without taking this history tour!
3. Escape the city and spend a day in Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 6 am, 8:30 am, 9 am (depends on tour option selected)
- Highlights: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Plitvice Lakes National Park, enjoy a guided walking tour to its best locations, cruise across Kozjac Lake, train ride (when in season), visit Rastoke Village
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide, round trip transport from select Zagreb hotels, park entrance fees, boat and train ticket, entrance to Rastoke Village
- Rating: 4.9 stars (Check 860+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
What if we told you that one of the most stunning national parks in the world is just outside of Zagreb? But don’t make the same mistake a lot of people do and try to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park on your own, that’s a surefire way to miss its best spots and struggle with getting there and back. We loved this highly reviewed tour because it took care of everything and let us enjoy a stress-free day.
Seriously, this park is one of those places where you see photos and think, “No way, that’s real?” — well, we had a front-row seat to its beauty. Plitvice Lakes is famous for its turquoise lakes and stunning waterfalls, which we couldn’t help but gawk at the entire time.
The park is huge, but our guide knew exactly where to go for the best views. One of our favorites was Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall), where we got an incredible panoramic view.
We also loved that the tour included a boat ride across the largest lake and a scenic train ride, which let us see even more of the park without extra walking. Plus, stopping in Rastoke, with its charming waterfalls and old wooden houses, made the day even better.
It was the kind of day where everything just flowed—no stress, no guesswork, just one unforgettable view after another. If you want to see Plitvice Lakes at its best without the hassle, this tour is absolutely the way to go.
If you’re ready to see one of the most beautiful parks in the world, click here!
Related Read: Still need a place to stay? Our reviews of the top hotels in Zagreb can help you decide!
4. See the city’s best sights on a bicycle tour
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Time: 10 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm
- Highlights: Take a leisurely ride through Zagreb’s top sights by bicycle with a local guide, see the cannon at Lotrščak Tower fire, and hear stories about places like the Art Pavilion, Cathedral of Zagreb, Tunel Gric, and more
- Inclusions: Local, professional guide, use of bike and helmet, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 Stars (Check 170+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re short on time but want to see the best of Zagreb without wearing out your feet, this bike tour is a game-changer! We weren’t sure how much of the city we could cover in just a few hours, but hopping on a bike made it easy to explore both the historic Upper Town and the lively Lower Town.
Plus, having a guide meant we didn’t have to worry about getting lost or missing out on cool stories that make the city come alive. They knew all the best routes and hidden spots and gave us insights we never would’ve found on our own.
What we loved most is that this tour isn’t just about ticking off tourist sights, it’s about experiencing Zagreb like a local. Our guide led us along quiet streets and scenic paths, pointing out hidden spots and sharing interesting facts about Zagreb’s past and present, including its history under Austro-Hungarian rule and how the city has changed since.
One of our favorite stops was King Tomislav Square, where we learned about Croatia’s first king while admiring the impressive Art Pavilion. We also stopped by Lotrščak Tower, where its famous cannon is still fired every day at noon—something everyone needs to experience when here!
This tour gave us a real feel for the city in just a few fun, laid-back hours—and that’s what makes it so great. If you want to cover a lot, learn a ton, and actually enjoy the ride, this is hands-down one of the best ways to explore Zagreb.
You can secure your spot for the best bike tour in Zagreb here!
5. Visit the charming and historic Ljubljana and Bled Lake
- Duration: 10 hours 30 minutes
- Time: 8:30 am
- Highlights: See Sylvania’s two most iconic attractions, Ljubljanica and Bled Lake, along with Roman architecture, medieval castles, and cathedrals
- Inclusions: English-speaking guide and round-trip transport from select Zagreb hotels
- Rating: 4.8 (Check the 540+ reviews here!)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Only in Zagreb for a few days and want to squeeze in a trip to Slovenia? We felt the same way—there was no way we were leaving without seeing Lake Bled and Ljubljana, but planning both in one day seemed impossible. That’s why this small-group day trip ended up being the perfect option.
It took care of transportation, made the border crossing quick and easy (don’t forget your passport!), and included only the best stops for an amazing day in Slovenia. This area is so underrated, and many people skip it because it’s a hassle to get there. If that’s you, don’t miss out on this!
Our favorite stop was definitely Bled Castle, perched high on a cliff with jaw-dropping views over the lake. Fun fact: it’s the oldest castle in Slovenia, dating all the way back to 1011! Wandering the grounds and soaking in those views was easily one of the best moments of the day.
Of course, you can’t visit Bled without hopping on a traditional pletna boat cruise to the island in the middle of the lake. With mountain backdrops and a church at its center, it’s just as beautiful as it looks in photos.
The tour also gave us time to explore Ljubljana, a charming city full of pretty bridges, colorful buildings, and laid-back cafes. We saw tons of amazing stuff there, too, but I won’t ramble—check it out for yourself!
Still need convincing? Read the hundreds of 5-star reviews and book the experience here!
6. Taste your way around Zagreb
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: Taste your way through Zagreb on this group walking tour, sample a wide variety of Croatian food at local restaurants, stop at the largest green market in Zagreb
- Inclusions: Certified local guide, entrance to the market, food tastings at five different locations, one beverage
- Rating: 5 stars (Check 200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Zagreb has some seriously good food, but finding it? That’s another story. You can walk into any old restaurant Google recommends and hope for authentic Croatian dishes, but we all know those are usually tourist traps. That’s why we signed up for this Zagreb food tour, and let me tell you, our tastebuds thanked us afterward.
Instead of wasting time guessing where to eat, we spent a few hours tasting everything from savory meats and cheeses to traditional stews and sweet pastries, all while learning about the city’s history through its food.
We loved that it also included a visit to Zagreb’s biggest and oldest market for a look into daily local life. Plus, our guide didn’t just serve us food, they shared stories and fun facts that made each stop way more meaningful.
By the end, we weren’t just full, we felt like we finally understood what Croatian cuisine is all about. It was totally worth it when we added up everything we tried and all the local tips we got for the rest of our trip.
If you want to eat like a local (without the guesswork), this tour is absolutely worth doing. Don’t just take our word for it—read hundreds of 5-star reviews here and see why travelers rave about this tour!
Check out all the stops and book this top-rated food tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. See Baroque cities and medieval castles on a private tour to Varaždin
- Duration: 9 hours
- Time: 9 am (dates vary)
- Highlights: Visit Varazdin and Trakoscan Castle with a private local guide, learn the history of Croatia’s most well-preserved castle, travel comfortably between sites in a private air-conditioned vehicle
- Inclusions: Private walking tour of Varaždin and Trakošćan castle, local licensed guide, private round-trip transportation, bottled water
- Rating: 5 stars (Check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Castles are cool—that goes without saying. So when we found out we could visit one of Croatia’s best-preserved castles and medieval cities, we were excited! The best part? Since we booked this private tour, we didn’t have to wait on a group or struggle to hear our guide.
If you’re a history buff, trust me, a private tour makes all the difference in what you learn and experience.
Even the drive out of Zagreb was a treat, with rolling hills, forests, and tiny villages giving us a glimpse of the Croatian countryside. Our guide, Karlo, used the time to share stories about what life looked like here in medieval times.
First up was Varazdin, a beautiful Baroque city with pastel buildings and elegant squares. Fun fact, Varazdin was Croatia’s capital in the 18th century! Walking through town felt like stepping back in time, and Karlo pointed out hidden details and stories we never would’ve known otherwise.
But the highlight was Trakoscan Castle. Sitting on a hill overlooking a lake and forest, it’s in amazing shape for a 13th-century castle. Inside, we wandered through rooms filled with antique furniture, paintings, and a huge collection of medieval weapons—even swords and crossbows!
What made this tour unforgettable was the mix of history, scenery, and the flexibility that comes with going private. We got to ask questions, take our time, and really soak it all in—making it the perfect day trip for anyone who wants more than just a quick photo stop.
Book this incredible medieval history tour here!
8. Explore Zagreb on a Segway
- Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Time: 10:30 am or 2:30 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: See the best of Zagreb’s Lower and Upper Town by Segway, such as St. Mark’s Church, King Tomislav Square, Cathedral of Zagreb, Lotrscak Tower, and more
- Inclusions: Instructor/guide, use of Segway and helmet
- Rating: 4.9 stars (Check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’ve had your fill of traditional walking tours and want a fun, unique way to explore Zagreb, this Segway tour is perfect. After a quick and easy training session (seriously, it only took a few minutes to get the hang of it), we were off and gliding effortlessly through both Upper and Lower Town.
We cruised through Ban Jelačić Square, the heart of the city, and made our way up to St. Mark’s Church, famous for its colorful tiled roof that displays the coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia. From there, we rolled through the Stone Gate, the only remaining medieval gate into the Upper Town, and even stopped to see the little chapel inside, where locals still light candles.
Our guide made the whole experience even better with personal stories about Zagreb’s history and culture. He also pointed out hidden gems and quirky street art that we definitely would’ve missed on our own.
One of the best parts? Since it was a small group, we could ask all the questions we wanted, and the tour felt super personalized.
If you want to cover a lot of ground in Zagreb in a fun, unique way, this Segway tour is a must. It’s a great way to tick off all of the must-see sights in the city!
You can book this Segway experience in advance here!
Where to Stay in Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb is a lively city full of character, and there’s no shortage of great places to stay, no matter what kind of trip you’re planning. From timeless elegance to cozy comfort and affordable options, the city has something for every traveler and budget.
To help you narrow it down, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in Zagreb so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying everything this capital city has to offer.
Luxury – $$$
Housed in a 1925 art deco building, the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel is a 5-star landmark known for its old-world elegance and rich history as a stopover for Orient Express passengers. Rooms feature marble bathrooms, plush beds, and city views, while the gilded lobby sets a luxurious tone. Enjoy fine dining at Zinfandel’s and a beautiful terrace. Located near Zagreb’s main square and botanical gardens, it’s ideal for exploring.
Depending on the season and room type, rates range from €160–€400 per night. Check availability and book the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria is a great mid-range stay in the heart of Zagreb, just a short walk from the central train station. The location makes it super convenient for exploring the city on foot. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the hotel includes perks like free secured parking, a cozy lobby bar, and a restaurant serving both local and international cuisine. Guests also rave about the generous breakfast spread included in the rate!
Prices range from around €100–€200 per night. Check availability for your stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For budget-friendly accommodation in Zagreb, Main Square Hostel is a top pick! Located right on Ban Jelačić Square, it puts you steps from the city’s best restaurants, shops, and attractions. The hostel offers clean and modern dorms and rooms with attached bathrooms. There’s a relaxed common area, a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. It’s a great choice for travelers who want to stay central without spending a fortune!
Beds in a 4-bed dorm start at around €45. Book now on Booking.com or Hostelworld.
For more options, see all of Zagrab’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
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Thanks for reading!
That’s a wrap on all the best things to do in Zagreb! From historical walking tours and national park day trips to food tastings and scenic escapes across the border, this city truly surprised us in the best way. It’s packed with culture, charm, and stories that stick with you long after you’ve left.
Planning more travels nearby? We’ve got plenty more tips and destination guides to help! Start with the ones below, or head over to our collection of Croatia blogs for more inspiration!
8 Best Things to do in Zadar, Croatia