The Ultimate Zagreb Travel Guide For First-Time Visitors

Here’s a complete Zagreb travel guide if you plan to visit this capital city of Croatia.

For the last several years, I’ve been traveling Asia and Europe with my best companion, my husband.

Croatia was one of our favorite escapes when we lived in Europe. We always passed Zagreb on our way to the coastal area. Until one day, when our car broke down on the highway, 150 km from Zagreb.

Long story short, we found someone who could tow our car back to Zagreb for €300. We ended up in Zagreb while waiting for our car to be fixed. So, we decided, instead of waiting and complaining, why not explore the largest city in Croatia?

After two days of exploring Zagreb and hours of researching online, I gathered all the information and tips I found in this Zagreb travel guide.

But first and foremost, is it even worth visiting this capital of Croatia?

Is it worth visiting Zagreb?

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, is an underrated city in Europe. It’s not as famous as Vienna but it still has a lot of interesting things to see.

When I visited Zagreb, my expectations were low. But the city surprised me. It was vibrant, full of young people, and very walkable (we walked 12 km around the city!). The city is also easy to navigate, quite affordable, and has a pretty nice old town!

So, to answer the question above: yes! It’s worth every second and every cent you’ll spend. But hey, it’s my personal opinion. But continue reading this article and you can decide if Zagreb is a city you want to visit.

Zagreb Map

Zagreb is in the northwest of the country. It’s near the international border between Croatia and Slovenia. If you drive the highway north for 2 hours, you’ll reach Austria.

Best time to visit Zagreb

The best time to visit Zagreb depends on what you want to do and see. According to Frank about Croatia, many locals leave the city in the peak of summer (August). Why is that? Because the heat is unbearable. So, some shops might be closed during this time.

Anyway, here are a few tips to help you decide when to plan your trip:

Weather in Zagreb

Zagreb has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summer can be very hot and winter is cold and snowy. All four seasons can be a good time to visit, depending on your preferences. Let me tell you what you can expect from each season in Zagreb.

Spring

Spring is a lovely time to visit Zagreb. The city comes alive with flowers, festivals, and outdoor activities. The weather is mild and sunny. The average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C.

You can enjoy strolling through the historic Upper Town. You could also visit the colorful Dolac market or relax in one of the many parks and gardens.

Spring is also a good time to explore nearby attractions. You can take a day trip and visit the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park or Samobor town.

Summer

Summer is the peak season for tourism in Zagreb, as well as the hottest and most crowded time of the year. The average temperatures can reach up to 30°C, and the humidity can be high.

But, summer also brings a lot of fun and excitement to the city. There are many events, concerts, festivals, and nightlife options during this time.

You can join the locals in cooling off at Lake Jarun or Bundek. You can also escape the heat by visiting one of the many museums and galleries.

Autumn

Autumn is another beautiful time to visit Zagreb, as the city turns into a kaleidoscope of colors. The weather is still pleasant and warm, with average temperatures between 15°C and 25°C.

You can walk along the scenic Lenuci Horseshoe or Zrinjevac Park and enjoy the crisp air.

Autumn is also a good time to sample some of the local delicacies. Some of the must-try are roasted chestnuts, Strukli (cheese pastry), or Kremšnita (custard cake).

Winter

Winter is the coldest and darkest time of the year in Zagreb, with average temperatures between 0°C and 10°C.

Yet, winter also brings a lot of magic and charm to the city, especially during the Advent season. Zagreb is famous for its Christmas markets, which have been voted the best in Europe for several years in a row.

You can enjoy the festive atmosphere and the sparkling lights. Not to mention the delicious food and drinks, and the live music and entertainment.

Winter is also a good time to visit some of the indoor attractions. You can visit the Museum of Broken Relationships or the Croatian National Theatre.

There is no bad time to visit Zagreb, as each season has something special to offer. The best time to visit Zagreb depends on your preferences, budget, and interests.

If you want to avoid the high crowd and are traveling on a budget (like me), you should plan to visit in spring or autumn.

How to get to Zagreb

There are many ways to get to Zagreb. Depending on where you are coming from and what your budget and preferences are. Here are some of the most common options:

– By plane:

Zagreb International Airport is well connected to many European and some intercontinental destinations.

The airport is located about 17 km from the city center and there are several ways to get there.

You can take a shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes and costs about 4 euros one way. The bus takes you to the main bus station in Zagreb, from where you can take a tram or a taxi to your accommodation.

Or, you can take a taxi or an Uber from the airport. This way will cost you around 20-27 euros depending on the traffic and your destination.

We took Bolt Taxi in Zagreb. It worked well for us.

Another option is to take a local bus (number 290) that goes from the airport to Kvaternik Square (via Velika Gorica) in Zagreb. This bus is cheaper (1.30 euros) but slower (40 minutes) and less frequent (every 35 minutes).

– By train:

Another option to reach Zagreb is by train. The Central train station in Zagreb is well-connected to many European cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Munich.

The train station is located in the heart of the city and you can walk or take a tram to your accommodation.

Train travel is comfortable and scenic. Much more if you cross the Alps or the Balkan mountains. You can check the timetables and prices on the official website of Croatian Railways.

– By bus:

Zagreb has a main bus station that is also well-connected to many European cities.

The bus station is located near the train station and you can also walk or take a tram to your accommodation. Bus travel is usually cheaper than train travel but can also be longer and less comfortable.

But if you decided to take the bus to Zagreb, I recommend FlixBus. They have free Wi-Fi on board, comfy seats, and restrooms on every bus. Affordable and comfortable!

– By car:

Zagreb is accessible by car from many directions. This is because of its good location (at the crossroads of several major highways).

You can drive from Vienna (4 hours), Budapest (3 hours), Ljubljana (2 hours), or Venice (4 hours).

Driving in Croatia is generally safe and easy, as the roads are well-maintained. But, you should be aware of some tolls on the highways (the toll fee in Croatia is quite high!) and some parking fees in Zagreb.

Note: it’s difficult to find a parking lot in Zagreb. If you plan to visit the old town, you’d better leave your car at your accommodation and take a taxi or the tram. It’s easier and cheaper this way.

How to get around in Zagreb

Here are some tips and options for exploring Zagreb.

Public transportation

Zagreb has a well-developed and efficient public transportation system. This system includes trams, buses, and trains.

Trams are the most convenient and popular way to get around Zagreb. They cover most of the city center and run from 4 a.m. to midnight. There are 15 tram lines in total, and you can find a map of the tram network here.

You can buy tickets at Tisak kiosks or directly at the tram. A single ticket costs about 0.50 euros and is valid for 30 minutes on any tram or bus line. You can also buy daily, weekly, or monthly passes that offer unlimited rides within the city.

Buses are another option for reaching some areas that are not served by trams, such as the airport or the zoo.

There are also night buses that operate from midnight to 4 a.m. These buses run less frequently and have different routes than daytime buses.

Same as the trams, you can buy the ticket at Tisak Kiosks or directly from the bus driver.

Trains are used for intercity or regional travel. But there are also some local trains that connect Zagreb with nearby towns such as Samobor or Velika Gorica.

You can buy train tickets at the stations or online.

The main train station in Zagreb is Glavni Kolodvor, located near the city center.

Taxi and ride-hailing services

If you prefer a more comfortable and convenient way to get around Zagreb, you can also use taxis.

You can find taxis at designated stands around the city or call them by phone. The average fare for a taxi ride in Zagreb is about 1.30 euros per kilometer, plus a base fee of 1.30 euros.

You can also use apps like Uber or Bolt to book a ride with your smartphone and pay with your credit card. The prices for these services are usually cheaper than taxis.

I used the Bolt app and it’s my favorite so far. I’ve used it in Budapest and it worked well in Zagreb too!

Bike and scooter rental

Zagreb is also a bike-friendly city, with many bike lanes and paths that allow you to explore the city on two wheels. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops in Zagreb, such as Nextbike. The prices range from 2 to 5 euros per hour, depending on the type of bike and the duration of the rental.

Another option is to use electric scooters. You can find and unlock them with an app like Lime or Spin. These scooters are scattered around the city and cost 0.40 euros to unlock plus 0.13 euros per minute to ride.

This option is good if you’re traveling alone and need to go to a place nearby but are too tired to walk. But if you’re traveling with your partner, then a Bolt taxi would be cheaper.

Walking

Of course, one of the best ways to get around Zagreb is by walking. Zagreb is a compact and walkable city. There are many pedestrian zones and parks that make it pleasant to stroll around.

You can discover the historical and cultural sights of the Upper Town and Lower Town on foot. Or you can enjoy the greenery of Maksimir Park or Jarun Lake.

Walking is also a great way to experience the local atmosphere and vibe of Zagreb. It’s also a great way to find hidden gems and surprises along the way.

Parking in Zagreb

It can be a bit challenging to find a parking spot in Zagreb, especially in the city center. If you are planning to visit Zagreb in your own car, you might be wondering where to park it.

Here are some tips about parking in Zagreb I wished I knew before.

First of all, you should know that Zagreb parking is divided into 3 zones, with different prices and rules. The closer you are to the city center, the more expensive it is.

Zone I is the most expensive one, with 1.60 euros per hour and a maximum of 2 hours of parking.

Zone II is cheaper, with 0.70 euros per hour and a maximum of 3 hours of parking.

Zone III is the cheapest one, with about 0.30 EUR per hour and unlimited parking.

There are also some special zones, such as Zone IV.II Paromlin Parking in Koturaška, which costs only about 1.30 euros per day and has unlimited parking.

You can pay at the street parking meters. You can also use the ZgPark app to pay for parking and find available spots.

Garage Parking

Another option is to use one of the many parking garages in Zagreb. They are usually safer and more convenient than street parking. You will pay once you are leaving the garage.

The prices vary depending on the location and time of day, but they are generally reasonable.

For example, the Langov Square garage costs about 1 euro per hour during weekdays. And about 0.50 euros per hour during weekends and holidays.

You can find more information about Zagreb parking garages on this website.

Where to stay in Zagreb

There are plenty of accommodation options in Zagreb. You can find luxury hotels to cheap hostels in this vibrant city. But which area should you be staying in?

Lower Town: Best for first-time visitors

If you’re visiting Zagreb for the first time, you can’t go wrong with staying in Lower Town. This is the modern and commercial heart of the city. Here you’ll find most of the shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars.

It’s also where most of the main attractions are located such as the Ban Jelacic Square, the Croatian National Theatre, the Mimara Museum, and the Botanical Garden.

Lower Town is well-connected by public transport. From here you can easily explore other parts of the city.

Some of the affordable accommodations in Lower Town are:

– Haustor Apartments: This property is located within walking distance of popular spots in the city. Equipped with a small kitchen, TV, and free Wi-Fi. Prices start from 60 euros per night.

– Piccolo Apartments: A cozy little studio apartment not far from Zagreb Train Station (800 m). A great location if you plan to take the train/bus to Zagreb. It has all the necessities you need and the price starts from 62 euros per night.

– Mickey Mouse & Studio Mini: Like its name, this is a tiny studio apartment, but it has all you need. The only downside is that they have no elevator and the apartment is on the 4th floor. Prices start from 51 euros per night.

– Niva Rooms & Studio Apartment: This is a clean and nice apartment right in the middle of Lower Town. They have free Wi-Fi, free toiletries, and a desk. The downside is that it’s a bit noisy since it’s close to a popular street. Prices start from 58 euros per night.

2. Upper Town: Best for nightlife

If you’re looking for nightlife in Zagreb, you should stay in Upper Town. This is the oldest and most historic part of the city.

This is where you’ll find cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, churches, museums, and galleries. It’s also where most of the bars, pubs, clubs, and live music venues are located. And where my favorite street is: Tkalciceva Street!

Upper Town is a great place to experience the local culture and history of Zagreb by day and night.

Some of the best hostels in Upper Town are:

– Taban Hostel: This is a trendy and stylish hostel that offers dorms and private rooms. The facilities include free Wi-Fi, lockers, towels, and hair dryers. It also has a bar/restaurant that serves local dishes and drinks. It’s located on Tkalciceva Street and close to many nightlife spots.

– Main Square Hostel: If you want to be right in the heart of the action, this is the place for you. The hostel is on the main square, with a stunning view of the Ban Jelačić statue and the cathedral. Prices start from 25 euros per night for a dorm bed.

3. Kaptol: Best for budget travelers

If you’re looking for a place to stay that won’t break the bank, you might want to consider the Kaptol area.

Kaptol is one of the oldest parts of Zagreb, and it’s located just north of the Upper Town, separated by a small street. It’s also close to the main attractions of Zagreb, such as the Cathedral, the Dolac market, and the Ban Jelacic Square.

Here are some tips on where to stay in Kaptol area in Zagreb, especially for budget travelers:

– Apartment Tkalča: This apartment is located on Tkalciceva Street, which is one of the most lively and popular streets in Zagreb (and my favorite street!). It’s full of cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops. The apartment is spacious and modern, with a fully equipped kitchen, a living room, a bedroom, and a bathroom. It can accommodate up to four guests and it costs around 50 euros per night. Note: there’s a least stay of 3 nights.

– Chillout Hostel Zagreb: This is a fun and social hostel that offers dorms and private rooms with free Wi-Fi, lockers, and linens. It also has a common kitchen, a lounge area, a bar, and a travel desk. It organizes free walking tours, pub crawls, and other activities for guests. It’s perfect for backpackers who want to meet other travelers (and if you like to party).

4. Britanski trg: hip and trendy

If you are looking for a cool and hip place to stay in Zagreb, you should stay in Britanski trg. This is a trendy and bohemian area that is located near Lower Town. This is where you can find some of Zagreb’s most fashionable cafes, restaurants, shops, and galleries.

Britanski trg is also known for its antique market. This antique market takes place every Sunday morning and attracts collectors and bargain hunters from all over the city.

You can also enjoy some cultural events and festivals that are held at Britanski trg throughout the year.

Some of the options for budget travelers are:

– Whole Wide World Hostel: This is a party hostel located close to Britanski Square, with free Wi-Fi and air-conditioned rooms. They have a fully equipped shared kitchen and you can stay in the dorm room for 21 euros per night.

– Apartman Poppy: This is a nice and clean apartment with private parking, located on Ilica Street, not far from Britanski trg. It has a garden, a terrace, and a fully equipped kitchen plus a washing machine. Prices start from 65 euros per night.

Zagreb Food Guide

Zagreb is a city with a rich culinary heritage. The city is influenced by various cultures and cuisines over the centuries. You can find everything from traditional Croatian Dishes to International flavors.

Must Try Dishes in Zagreb

Here are some of the must-try traditional Croatian dishes and food in Zagreb that will make your taste buds happy.

1. Štrukli

Štrukli is a dish that originated in the northern region of Zagorje, but it is also very popular in Zagreb. It consists of thin layers of dough filled with fresh cheese and sour cream, and it can be cooked or baked. Štrukli can be sweet or savory, depending on the filling and the topping.

Some of the common variations are štrukli with walnuts, poppy seeds, apples, or blueberries. Štrukli is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion.

You can find it in many restaurants and bakeries in Zagreb. But one of the best places to try it is Stari Fijaker, a traditional restaurant in the city center.

2. Roasted turkey with mlinci

Another dish that comes from Zagorje is roasted turkey with mlinci. This meal is often served at family gatherings and holidays, especially Christmas.

Mlinci are thin pieces of dried flatbread soaked in the juices of roasted turkey. Roasted turkey with mlinci is a simple but delicious dish. It showcases the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the cook.

You can enjoy it at Vinodol, an iconic restaurant in Zagreb that specializes in Croatian cuisine.

3. Istrian fuži

If you love pasta, you will love Istrian fuži. Fuži can be paired with various sauces, called šug, which are usually made from seafood, octopus, beef, or vegetables.

One of the most popular combinations is fuži with truffles, a delicacy that Istria is famous for. You can try them at Vodnjanka, an authentic Istrian restaurant in Zagreb.

4. Prawn buzara

Another seafood dish that you should not miss in Zagreb is prawn buzara. This is a simple but flavorful dish that comes from the Adriatic coast.

Buzara is a method of cooking seafood in a sauce made from olive oil, wine, garlic, parsley, and sometimes breadcrumbs. The sauce enhances the taste and aroma of the prawns, which are cooked until they turn pink and tender.

Prawns buzara can be eaten with bread or pasta, or simply by itself. You can find them at Marenda, a cozy restaurant in Zagreb that serves traditional Croatian food.

5. Octopus under the bell

If you are feeling adventurous, you might want to try Octopus under the Bell. This is a dish that uses an interesting cooking technique that results in juicy and tender meat.

You can taste it at Korčula, a restaurant in Zagreb that captures the spirit of Dalmatia.

Food Guide for Budget Travelers

One of the best ways to eat cheaply in Zagreb is to look for Gableci. Gableci is a daily special offered by many restaurants and bistros around noon. They usually consist of a soup, a main course, and a salad, and cost around 4-5 euros.

Another option is to go for street food, which is plentiful and diverse in Zagreb. You can find anything from burgers and hot dogs to pizza and falafel, depending on your mood and appetite.

Some of the best places to grab a bite on the go are:

– Pingvin, a legendary sandwich shop. They serve toasted sandwiches with different fillings like ham, cheese, tuna, and salami;

– Curry Bowl, a Sri Lankan joint that offers spicy and flavorful rice bowls with chicken, beef, or veggies;

– La Struk, a small restaurant specializing in strukli, the typical Zagreb dish.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also try some of the ethnic cuisines that Zagreb has to offer. You can find anything from Greek and Mexican to Thai and Indian, depending on your taste buds.

Some of the best places to sample some exotic flavors are:

Lokma from Istanbul, a Turkish restaurant that serves authentic mezzes, kebabs and baklava;

L’oro di Napoli, an Italian-run pizzeria that makes Neapolitan-style pizzas with fresh ingredients;

Soi Fusion Bar, an Asian fusion bar that serves wok dishes, ramen, and gyoza. (This one is my favorite!)

The payment system in Zagreb

Most restaurants in Zagreb accept cash and credit cards. But, some smaller or more traditional restaurants may only accept cash.

It is always a good idea to ask before you order or check the menu for signs that show the accepted payment methods. You can also look for stickers on the door or window that show the logos of the credit cards they accept.

If you pay by card, you will usually be given a portable card reader that you can use at your table. You will be asked to enter your PIN or sign the receipt. Sometimes, you might be asked to go to the cashier or the bar to pay by card.

If you pay by cash, you will be given a bill in a wallet or a tray. You can either put the exact amount or more than what you owe and wait for the change.

Tipping in Zagreb

First of all, let me tell you that tipping in Zagreb is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. Croatia is not a very expensive country, but it is also not very rich. Service jobs come with low salaries, and tips are an important source of income for waiters. So, if you receive good service and enjoy your meal, it is polite to leave a tip.

But how much should you tip?

Well, there is no hard and fast rule, but the general range is 10-15% of the bill. You can round up the bill or leave some coins on the table.

If you’re paying by card, you might not be able to add a tip to the receipt, so it’s better to have some cash in hand. Also, make sure to pay tips directly to the waiter, or tell them you don’t want the change, otherwise, they might not get it.

Note that some restaurants, especially in a touristy area, may add a service charge to your bill.

This is usually around 10%, and it should be clearly stated on the menu or the receipt. If that’s the case, you don’t need to tip extra, unless you want to.

What to do in Zagreb

Here are some of the best things to do in Zagreb, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan.

Explore the Upper Town.

This is the oldest and most picturesque part of Zagreb, where you will find the medieval settlements of Kaptol and Gradec.

Kaptol is where the Zagreb Cathedral, the largest and most impressive Gothic building in Croatia is located.

Gradec is where you can admire the colorful St. Mark’s Church, with its distinctive tiled roof, and the Lotrščak Tower, which fires a cannon every day at noon.

You can also visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, which displays quirky and emotional items from failed romances.

Stroll around the Lower Town

This is the more modern and elegant part of Zagreb, with wide boulevards, grand buildings, and beautiful parks.

The Lower Town is home to some of the best museums and galleries in Zagreb. Some of them are the Mimara Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

You can also relax at Zrinjevac Park, one of the most popular green spaces in Zagreb.

Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you have some extra time in Zagreb, a visit to this natural wonder is a must. It’s only a two-hour drive or bus ride away.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a series of 16 turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests.

You can hike along the wooden paths that cross the lakes. You can also take a boat ride on the largest lake or enjoy the panoramic views from the viewpoints.

Experience the nightlife

Zagreb is not only a cultural and historical hub, but also a fun and lively city that knows how to party. You’ll find plenty of bars, pubs, clubs, and cafes to suit your mood and taste.

There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a drink, a trendy place to dance, or a live music venue to catch some local bands.

Some of the best areas to explore are Tkalciceva Street, Bogoviceva Square, and Cvjetni Square.

Shop at the Dolac Market

No visit to Zagreb is complete without experiencing its vibrant market culture. The Dolac market is the largest and most famous open-air market in Zagreb. Here you’ll find fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, flowers, and souvenirs.

The market is open every day from early morning until afternoon, except on Sundays when it closes at noon.

You can also visit the nearby Ban Jelačić Square. This is Zagreb’s main square and a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

Must-See Places in Zagreb

– The Museum of Broken Relationships

This is one of the most unique and eccentric museums in the world. You’ll see objects and stories left behind by former lovers. The museum is both funny and sad, and it will make you reflect on your own relationships and breakups.

– The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art

This museum showcases the work of self-taught artists. They developed their own style and expression without formal education or training. The museum features paintings, sculptures, drawings, and prints. They are colorful, imaginative, and often surreal.

– The Zagreb Cathedral

This is the most iconic landmark of Zagreb and one of the tallest buildings in Croatia. The cathedral was built in the 13th century in the Gothic style. Over the centuries it’s been damaged by earthquakes and wars.

It was restored and renovated several times, adding neo-Gothic elements and spires. The cathedral is impressive both inside and out. It has stained glass windows, sculptures, paintings, and organs.

– The Mirogoj Cemetery

This might sound like a strange place to visit, but trust me, it’s worth it. The Mirogoj cemetery is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe. It’s located on a hill surrounded by greenery.

The cemetery was designed in the 19th century by the architect Hermann Bollé. It’s characterized by arcades, domes, sculptures, and monuments.

The cemetery is also a place of diversity and tolerance. It contains graves of people of different religions and nationalities.

– The Lotrščak Tower

This tower was built in the 13th century to protect the south gate of the city. You can climb up to the top for a panoramic view of Zagreb and its surroundings.

Note: a cannon fires from the tower every day at 12.00 as a tradition dating back to 1877!

Shopping in Zagreb

– If you’re interested in traditional Croatian products, look for Licitar hearts. These are colorful gingerbread cookies, often decorated with messages or symbols. They are usually sold at souvenir shops or markets, and they make a sweet gift for your loved ones.

– Another typical Croatian product is the Cravat. It’s a type of necktie that originated in Croatia in the 17th century. Cravats are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and materials at specialized shops and department stores.

– If you are a fan of wine, you can buy some Croatian wine from local wineries or wine bars. Some of the most popular wines are Plavac Mali, Malvazija Istarska, Graševina, and Pošip.

– If you are looking for something modern and trendy, you can buy clothes, shoes, or accessories in one of Zagreb’s many malls and boutiques.

You’ll find international brands as well as local designers. All offer quality products at reasonable prices. Some of the best places to shop are Arena Centar, City Center One, Importanne Centar, and Cvjetni.

Safety in Zagreb

Zagreb is generally a safe city. But, like any other place, there are some risks and challenges that visitors should be aware of.

Here are some safety tips for visiting Zagreb that can help you enjoy your trip without any trouble.

– Be careful with your belongings

Zagreb isn’t known for having a high crime rate. But petty theft and pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas.

Keep your valuables close to you and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or expensive items. If you use public transportation, watch out for your bags and pockets. If you rent a car, park it in a secure place and do not leave anything inside.

– Beware of scams

Some people may try to take advantage of tourists by offering fake products, services, or tickets at inflated prices.

For example, some taxi drivers may charge you more than the normal fare or take you to a different destination than you requested. To avoid this, use only licensed taxis with meters or book them through an app or a hotel.

Also, be wary of anyone who approaches you on the street and tries to sell you something or ask you for money. If you are not interested, just say no and walk away.

– Respect the local customs and laws

Zagreb is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it also has some traditions and rules that visitors should respect.

For example, do not drink alcohol in public places or cause noise or disturbance at night.

Do not litter or vandalize any property or monument.

Do not smoke in indoor spaces or near children.

Do not take photos of people without their permission or of military or government buildings.

If you visit any religious site, dress modestly and follow the etiquette. If you are unsure about something, ask a local or a guide for advice.

– Be prepared for emergencies

Zagreb has a good health care system and emergency services. But it’s always better to be prepared in case something happens. Before you travel, check your travel insurance. Make sure it covers medical expenses and repatriation.

Also, bring any medication you may need and keep it in its original packaging with a prescription.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for general assistance or 194 for an ambulance.

You can also contact your embassy or consulate if you need any help or support.

Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Here are some tips on how to go to Dubrovnik from Zagreb by different modes of transportation.

By plane

This is the fastest and easiest way to travel from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. Croatia Airlines operates daily flights between the two cities, with a flight time of only one hour.

You can book your tickets online or at the airport, and expect to pay around 100 euros for a round trip. The downside is that you will miss the scenic views of the Croatian countryside along the way.

By car

If you prefer to drive, you can take the A1 highway from Zagreb to Ploce. Ploce is about 100 kilometers from Dubrovnik. The drive will take at least six hours, and you will have to pay tolls of around 30 euros.

From Ploce, take the coastal road to Dubrovnik. Cross the new, iconic bridge that connects Croatia without crossing Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The advantage of driving is that you can stop at any place you like and enjoy the scenery.

By FlixBus

This is the cheapest option. Flixbus operates a direct trip to Dubrovnik every day. The fare is around 30 euros for a one-way ticket. All the FlixBus buses are air-conditioned and have free Wi-Fi. There is also enough space for your bags and luggage. The trip takes about 10 hours.

By train and ferry

This is a more adventurous and fun way to travel from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. It’s also more complicated and time-consuming.

You can take a train from Zagreb to Split, which takes about six hours and costs around 25 euros. From Split, you can take a fast catamaran to Dubrovnik. It takes about four hours and costs about 20 euros.

You can book your tickets online or at the port.

The train and ferry combination will give you a chance to see two of Croatia’s most beautiful cities along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Zagreb expensive to visit?

From my personal experience, Zagreb is a much more affordable city compared to other European Cities like Vienna or Budapest. The price of food, accommodation, and public transport is cheaper than those other cities.

How many days in Zagreb is enough?

I would say at least two or three days is enough to explore Zagreb and its surroundings. Of course, it totally depends on what you would like to do and see. If you don’t like visiting museums or taking a day trip to nearby attractions, I would say two days is enough.

What’s Next?

There are many interesting cities to visit in Croatia. If you like medieval town, or if you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, check out Sibenik. It’s a small coastal town where some of the scenes in the popular series were filmed.

Check out my article, Sibenik Travel Guide for First Timer, if you plan to visit!