For no reason, the city of Zagreb is often neglected by tourists who visit the country most in the summer period, eager to discover the Croatian coast. If you arrive in Zagreb, Croatia, consider to slow down. Stop for at least one night and discover this wonderful city. It lacks nothing, believe us – architecture, large squares, churches with rich history and beautiful people. It’s worth staying in Zagreb, Croatia for at least one day.
Zagreb, Croatia – route, travel time
We traveled by car for approx. 9 hours and had driven more than 900 kilometers to get to Zagreb, Croatia. We crossed the Croatian customs border very easy, there were no other cars, except ours. I think the verification of the documents took a maximum of 30 seconds in total. Quite pleasant, especially when you come from a long distance and can’t wait to check in at the hotel.
We chose to stay in a residential area of the city, about 4 km from the hustle and bustle of the historic center. Regarding our stay, we will soon publish the English version of the article. It is all about the hotel: amenities, prices etc. Please follow the “Accommodation” category for details.
We traveled to Zagreb in an early November day, but enjoyed a very nice and warm weather. That’s why we chose to walk to the historic area of Zagreb. Below you can read about what we managed to see during one day in Zagreb, Croatia. We start with the locations that we liked the most and that we highly recommend:
Trg bana Jelačića (or Ban Jelačić Square)
The main orientation place in Zagreb, Croatia and its geographical heart is Trg bana Jelačića. The square’s history starts in the 17th century. It’s initial name was Harmica. The oldest standing building, dating from the 18th century, is located at Ban Jelačić Square no. 1. In 1848, the Square was renamed to its current name. A large statue of Josip Jelačić was installed on October 19, 1866. It was created by the Austrian sculptor Anton Dominik Fernkorn.
In 1946, the square was renamed Trg Republike (Republic Square). A year later, the statue of Jelačić was removed. The new communist government in RSF Yugoslavia denounced him as a “servant of foreign interests”. On October 11, 1990, during the breakup of Yugoslavia, Jelačić’s historical role was again seen as positive. And the statue was returned into the Square.
Ilica Street in Zagreb, Croatia
Ilica Street (approx. 6 km long) is one of the longest and busiest shopping streets in Zagreb. This place is ideal for shopping lovers and for those who enjoy the multitude of terraces. Being in a pandemic time, we were not at all interested in shopping. Instead, after almost an hour of walking we decided to eat something.
I really liked that the owners have adapted quite well to the needs of the customers. We could find heated terraces almost anywhere. And because it was November everyone tried to catch a warmer place, especially in places with no direct sunlight and in the evening. We had our brunch at one of the terraces. It was warm and cozy. A lot of people where passing by, a lot of different young and elderly people. After staying so much in isolation, I realized that I just enjoyed looking at people being in a hurry and never imagining that someone is so delighted just looking at them.
Grič tunnel
The Grič Tunnel is a pedestrian tunnel located in the center of Zagreb, Croatia, below the historic Grič district. It consists of a central hall and has six exits.
The tunnel spans 350 meters from Mesnička Street to Stjepan Radić Street and is 3.2 meters wide. The central hall is about 100 meters long and 5.5 meters wide. The total floor area of the tunnel is approximately 2,200 square meters.
The history of this tunnel begins during the Second World War. It was planned and designed to serve as a shelter. However, its construction took longer than it was expected and involved much more financial resources. Finally, the authorities at the time realized that in the tunnel can shelter no more than 5,000 people. After the war, it was left in degradation and became a place for homeless people or drug users who sought refuge. Over time, it was also used as a food warehouse. But it also found its usefulness during the Croatian war of independence. In 2016, the tunnel was remodeled and opened to the public. It hosts also cultural events.
Marijina Uznesenja Cathedral
The cathedral is the tallest building in Zagreb. Its towers reach a height of almost 105 meters. It is said that they can be seen from almost any neighborhood of the city. The first church was built in this place in the 1200s, but was destroyed during the Mongol invasion. Another cathedral was built-up in the same place, incorporating the remains of the former building.
The cathedral combines Gothic style with French architecture and sculptural elements from the Czech school. The building was severely damaged in 1880 after an earthquake. The cathedral has been under repair for several decades. We hope that the works will be soon completed.
St. Mark’s Church
Built in the 13th-century, the St. Mark’s Church is one of the oldest and most emblematic buildings in Zagreb. The colorful tiled roof has the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia on the left and the emblem of Zagreb on the right. The Gothic portal on this church is considered the most valuable in southern Central Europe. It consists of 15 figures, including statues of Joseph and Mary with the baby Jesus and the 12 apostles. The Gothic portal was carved in the 14th century.
Zagreb, Croatia: the shortest funicular in the world
Did you know that the Zagreb’s funicular was chosen as one of the most beautiful funiculars in Europe? It is also the shortest funicular in the world. It is only 66 meters long. The funicular, a symbol of the city of Zagreb, connects Ilica Street with the Strossmayer promenade and is a protected cultural monument. It was first put into operation in 1890, being powered by a steam engine. In 1934, steam propulsion was replaced by an electric engine.
Kula Lotrščak (Lotrščak Tower)
The Lotrščak Tower is one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb and has withstood very unfavorable times. It was part of the southern gate, with the role of defending the city against the Turks. It was built in 1266. Today, it offers spectacular views over the city. Tourists can climb to the top, on narrow wooden steps. But there is nothing to be afraid of. The view over the city is worth the effort. The tower is located at the top of the city. Close to the tower are the main attractions of the city, including the Zagreb Funicular.
The entrance costs for an adult approx. 3 EUR. On the ground floor of the tower there is a shop where you can buy all kinds of souvenirs. It is said that every afternoon for more than 100 years a cannon is fired from the tower! It’s time to set your watches if you’re somewhere nearby. This is actually its real purpose. Although, the Croats like to say that this is how they put the Turks on the run :). But first make sure you have a strong heart 🙂
Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia
Yes, if you haven’t heard of it already, know that in Zagreb there is a Museum of broken relationships. Burning passions that have been consumed over the time, broken family ties – this museum explores the memories left after a relationship has ended.
In the museum you will find exposed things donated from people around the world that belonged to their former partners. Items differ a lot – bicycles, sweaters, wedding dresses, boots etc. and are accompanied by a short story.
Some messages are ironical, others still convey love and non-acceptance of separation from the loved one. For example, next to a wedding dress it was written that the husband of that woman died in a terrorist attack. Some messages were really very painful to read. But I liked the idea of such a museum, mostly because of its healing power.
If you arrive in Zagreb, Croatia or you just lost someone, or ended a relationship, this is a must. Maybe you could find some things to donate them. Also, a Museum of Broken Relationships exists in Los Angeles.
Bonus: The people of Zagreb, Croatia
Oh, I have to tell you about the people of Zagreb. I found women very attentive to the way they look. Some wore high heels and this is really sexy, but I guess uncomfortable, especially when going for a walk. With highlighted make-up, elegant styled, Croatian women seemed beautiful to me. I have to say that men also looked great. They seemed to me not only very elegant, but with no trace of exaggeration. I don’t wear high heels, although I love them; I am not getting out my mom fit jeans and since the pandemic I almost don’t use lipstick (which doesn’t mean that this keeps me not buying them). So, that’s the reason I couldn’t take my eyes off the Croatian people. In conclusion, the people of Zagreb are beautiful and really care about their physical appearance.
Unfortunately, we did not manage to see many places in Zagreb, Croatia. Chocolate Museum, Art Pavilion, National Theater, Museum of Arts, Museum of Illusions, Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, etc. But I hope I’ve given you enough reasons to stay in Zagreb for at least one day.
