Itineraries for Your Trip to Zagreb
2 Days in Zagreb for First Timers
Croatia’s capital and largest urban hub, history-saturated Zagreb is a city of contrasts. Its centuries-old Upper Town is counterpoised with its more modern Lower Town; its traditional eateries are juxtaposed with trendy bars and cafés; and its monuments exist alongside quirky museums. Here’s how to see it all on a 2-day trip.
On your first day in town, opt for a crash-course in Zagreb’s rich history and many monuments. Climb aboard a hop-on hop-off bus tour to admire the neoclassical buildings, expansive parks, and brutalist architecture of the Lower Town.
In the afternoon, trek—or take a funicular, if you’d prefer to rest your legs—up to Zagreb’s lofty (and aptly named) Upper Town. A history-themed walking tour is the perfect way to get acquainted with its surfeit of landmarks, which range from the Zagreb Cathedral and Stone Gate to St. Mark’s Church (famed for its vibrant, tiled roof). You can also drop by the Museum of Broken Relationships, one of the city’s most unusual destinations.
Evening offers the chance to see another side of Zagreb. Register for a nighttime bike tour and you can catch glimpses of the city’s buildings and squares lit up with golden light. At tour’s end, head to a local pub for a dose of Zagreb’s bustling nightlife.
On your second day in town, it’s time to indulge. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are at the heart of Croatia’s gastronomy, and you can see how locals shop and dine on a morning farmers market tour. Then, pick up ingredients and use them to prepare a traditional meal with the guidance of a local chef.
In the afternoon, go for a stroll to work up an appetite before embarking on a food-themed walking tour. Enjoy a survey of local restaurants, bakeries, and other eateries, and nibble traditional Croatian delicacies as you go.
The sun beginning to set can only mean one thing: It’s time for wine. Locals are exceptionally proud of Croatia’s winemaking traditions, and you can sample a wide variety of local wines on an evening tour—and learn from an expert what sets native varietals apart.
