How to spend a long weekend in Zagreb, Croatia

Zagreb, in northwestern Croatia, is a dynamic capital that attracts and captivates with its refreshing cafe culture, stately architecture, and high-end gastronomy scene focused on seasonal farm-to-table produce. The city is located on the banks of the Sava River, with the lush Medvednica Mountain in the northern background. This laid-back center boasts an abundance of gardens, parks, and lakes, as well as a remarkable independent spirit. It's a vibrant hub that resists chain stores and fosters local organizations and vendors. Residents and tourists alike frequent the many museums and galleries, and various festivals are held throughout the year. Here's how to spend a long weekend in the Croatian capital, with so much to see and do.

things to see

Zagreb's city center is full of impressive architecture, from the gorgeous pastel Art Nouveau buildings that line Ban Jelacic Square to the grand Gothic cathedral. A short but charming cable car takes you to Gradec, the hilltop center of the city. There proudly stands the indomitable Lotrszczak Tower with its Glitch cannon that explodes every day at noon. His precious 13th century St. Mark's Church also stands out in Gradec. Its tiled roof features the blue, red and white motifs of the Croatian coat of arms and the coat of arms of Zagreb Castle.

There are many coffee shops in the city where you can replenish your energy. Among them is the Botanical Gardens of Renuchi Horseshoe, a collection of botanical gardens with U-shaped parks, plazas and various statues, galleries and attractions. For another touch of nature, take a funicular ride to Slěme, the peak of Mount Medvednica north of the city. A perfect place for a walk in the forest. Locals spend their summer evenings relaxing with a drink on the shores of the idyllic Jarun Lake or savoring the libations on offer at the chic Cocktail His bar in the city center. I love spending time. A'e Craft Bar makes wicked Moscow Mules with stunning views of the cathedral.

what will you do

In addition to Novy Zagreb's unmissable ethnographic and contemporary art institutions in the city center and downriver on the Sava River, Zagreb also offers a wide variety of art and crafts, ranging from a long-standing collection of art and artifacts to the quirky and unusual. There are some excellent museums. Filled with personal stories, the Broken Relationships Museum houses items donated by the public that will make you laugh and (maybe) cry. As the name suggests, the Museum of Fantasy is full of fun things to do. Trompe l'oeil Investigate optical illusions. Or take a tasting tour through the history of the world's favorite sweet treat at the Zagreb Chocolate Museum. The museum also tells the story of the popular local brand Klash.

where to eat

Ivana Tkarčićeva Street, just off Jelacic Square, is the city's main destination for al fresco dining and is lined with a variety of international restaurants serving everything from Greek to Sri Lankan cuisine. I'm here. But if you're looking for truly authentic Croatian cuisine, Restoran Stari Fijaker is the place to go. This old-fashioned spot is one of the last in the city center serving delicious traditional dishes such as: pashchikada (Sweet and sour beef stew).

Travelers interested in gastronomy may want to book a table at fine dining spot Dubravkin Put. The food here is so beautifully prepared that it seems a shame to hide it. The team at Sopal delivers something that feels like luxury, but is surprisingly down-to-earth. Based on the concept of “fun dining,” we offer fine dining with a tasting menu that combines traditional local cuisine with a modern twist. For delicious vegan and vegetarian options, head to Zrno Bio Bistro. In addition to heavenly stews and soups, the locally sourced and organic menu includes a delicious vegetarian his burger with a vegetable and tofu patty on top of a chickpea pancake and marinated zucchini.

when to go

In the summer, Zagreb comes alive with exciting art and performance events, concerts, festivals, pop-up food and film screenings, including electronic music festival Let The Music Be Free and huge rock festival InMusic. On the grounds of Lake Jarun in June. Plan to visit early or late in the season and spend time cooling off by the lake, as temperatures can average up to 28 degrees Celsius during peak summer. Autumn in the capital maintains a mild and mild climate with an average temperature of 22°C in September and 10°C in November, providing perfect conditions for long walks and hikes to Sri Cemme. Offers.

If you visit Zagreb in the winter, there are many colorful Christmas events taking place. This is sure to get even the most picky of travelers into the cheerful holiday spirit. Most notable is Zagreb's Advent, touted as one of Europe's best Christmas markets. Temperatures are low at this time of year, with an average high of 4 degrees in January, but snowfall can turn the city into a winter wonderland. In spring, the capital's parks and gardens bloom beautifully with fragrant plants, and a dazzling festival of lights heralds the arrival of the season with neon installations and sculptures shining throughout the city. The city is usually sunny and comfortable with average temperatures between 12°C and 22°C from mid-March to May.