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Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, pulses with life. It has all the tell-tale signs of a true European metropolis. Many of the best sights are hidden in the Old Town Zagreb lanes and strolling on foot is the best way to discover them. Visitors can see it all on our DIY Free Zagreb Walking Tour!
Old Town Zagreb Walking Tour for Free
Zagreb is a Top Destination in Croatia. The city is sprawling – but the historic center is walkable and compact. Long ago two medieval towns, Gradec and Kaptol, merged; creating what is today’s Zagreb city center. Fellow travelers can follow in our footsteps on our Self-Guided Zagreb Walking Tour for free!
Other Walking Tours of Zagreb
We believe the best walking tours in Zagreb are self guided adventures. However, we understand that some travelers would rather a guide lead the way. Therefore, we highlight some organized Zagreb walking tours at the end of this article.
Tips for Our Free Zagreb Walking Tour
We know you are ready to get started, but we have a few tips for your Zagreb sightseeing! The top places to visit in Zagreb are located in close proximity. Even those with only one day will be able to see many of the prime sights.
Zagreb Walking Tour Details
Our self-guided walking tour of Zagreb covers 1.5 miles. Visitors should allow 1-2 hours to complete this Zagreb sightseeing tour. The actual duration of the walk will depend on your interest level and pace.
What To Expect on a Free Walking Tour Zagreb
Our DIY Zagreb Free Walking Tour features the top things to see in the city. We include information about each attraction, as well as step-by-step directions and pin drops. Additionally, we provide a Zagreb, Croatia map at the end of the post.
Just be aware that you will need a data connection. We use a Pocket WiFi Device by GlocalMe – that way we are always on-line.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Free Tour of Zagreb for your trip to Croatia!
15 Things To See on a Zagreb Walking Tour
Our walking tour of Zagreb covers 15 sights in the historic city center. Start your Old Town Zagreb Walking Tour on Tomiceva Ulica at the Lower Funicular Station.
#1 Zagreb Funicular
{MAP} Touted as the shortest in the world, the Zagreb Funicular connects the lower town to the upper town with just 217 feet of track. Built in the late 1800s, it transports commuters up and down the hillside every 10 minutes.
A ride on the Zagreb Funicular takes less than a minute to ascend the slope – which is the quickest (and least strenuous) way to the hilltop.
Tickets can be purchased at the lower station, but those who would rather walk up to Gradec can do so via the stairs on the right side of the tracks.
At the Upper Funicular Station, stand at the lookout point revealing the Zagreb urban sprawl. Then turn around to face the Lotrscak Tower.
#2 Lotrscak Tower Zagreb
{MAP} When Gradec was declared a Free Royal City in 1242, it was done so with the stipulation that it become fortified. Walls, gates and towers were built to protect the town.
One of the few remnants of the walled city is the 13th century Kula Lotrscak, which was built to stand guard over the southern gate.
In 1877, the Gric Cannon was installed on the fourth floor. However, it was not intended to protect Zagreb from threats, but rather to keep it synchronized. The canon is (still) fired daily at noon, a signal to the church bell-ringers of the exact time, so be prepared!
Through the years, the tower has been used as a prison, a warehouse, a fire station and as a social club. Today, the interior hosts an art exhibition. For a fee, visitors can climb the spiral staircase for incredible 360-degree Zagreb views.
From the Lotrscak Tower, walk west into Strossmayer Park.
#3 Strossmayer Park and Garden
{MAP} Strossmayer is the east-west walkway in southern Gradec that occupies the space where the city wall once stood. Take a stroll down the pretty promenade as part of your Zagreb free walking tour.
The western end is nicknamed “Strossmartre,” because it evokes a Parisian vibe. In the shade of trees, park benches line the walkway, overlooking Zagreb to the south.
On the north side is an elevated garden, Park Gric. The romantic space features a fountain and manicured flower beds. History buffs will want to seek out the archaeological site which has produced numerous findings.
From the northeast corner of Gric Park, walk east on Vranyczanyeva Ulica just a few steps to Markovicev. Turn left (north) and walk two blocks to Freudenreichova Ulica. Turn right (east) and walk into Trg Sv Marka (St. Mark’s Square).
#4 St. Mark’s Church Zagreb
{MAP} St. Mark’s is the most beautiful square in the city – and a must-see sight on every Zagreb walking tour.
In the very center is St. Mark’s Church, easily recognizable by the colorfully tiled rooftop. The church was built in the 13th century, with numerous additions and expansions throughout its history.
The iconic rooftop was added in 1880. The tiles depict two Coats of Arms. The one on the left is for the Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia (which existed prior to Yugoslavia) and the one on the right represents the city of Zagreb.
Although most visitors can’t take their eyes off the roof, the southern door features an intricate Gothic design. Dating to the 14th century, the portal is composed of 15 carved statues placed in small alcoves. (Unfortunately, the interior is only open for mass.)
Flanking St. Mark’s Church are the two most important government buildings in Zagreb.
#5 Croatian Parliament and Governor’s Court
Although one of the top Zagreb tourist attractions, the square’s primary purpose is the center of Croatian politics.
In fact, presidential inaugurations are held in St. Mark’s Square, and it’s not unusual to see politicians coming and going from the buildings (along with a large police presence).
Banski Dvori
{MAP} On the west side is Banski Dvori, translated to Ban’s (Governor’s) Court. Intended to be built as a private palace in the early 1800s, the government completed the structure as an official residence.
The city’s Bans lived in Banksi Dvori until 1918. Throughout history the building was used for state offices and is today the seat of the Croatian Government.
Croatia Parliament Building
{MAP} On the east side is the Sabor, or Croatian Parliament. The building was constructed in the 1730s, with the first meeting taking place there in May 1737. It was then completely refurbished in the early 1900s.
Walk south on Cirilometodska Ulica (towards Lotrscak Tower). Pass the Museum of Broken Relationships and turn left (east) at Katarinin Trg. Walk straight ahead to St. Catherine’s Church.
#6 St. Catherine’s Church Zagreb
{MAP} The 17th century St. Catherine’s Church features a white façade with five statues standing in recesses. Take a short break from your free walking tour of Zagreb and admire it from the outside (the inside is currently closed to visitors).
Built by the Jesuits between 1620 and 1632, the church suffered two fires (1645 and 1674), as well as severe damage from an earthquake in 1880.
Reconstruction was led by famous Zagreb architect, Herman Bolle. An attached monastery was built on the north side of the church; the space is now used for the Klovicevi Dvori Art Gallery.
Walk along the south side of the church into the open Gradec Plateau.
#7 Gradec Plateau & Zagreb Lookout Point
{MAP} This is one of the best viewpoints in Zagreb – so don’t skip this stop! The Gradec Plateau overlooks what was once the separate town of Kaptol.
The panoramic view encompasses the Zagreb Cathedral, the yellow spire of St. Mary at Dolac and a jumble of orange-tiled rooftops.
Retrace your steps and turn right (north) to walk past the front of St. Catherine’s and the Klovicevi Dvori Art Gallery. Continue north on Jurja Habdelica to Kamenita Ulica. On the southeast corner is The Black Eagle, the oldest pharmacy in the city dating to the year 1355. Turn right (east) onto Kamenita and walk to Stone Gate.
#8 Zagreb Stone Gate and Chapel
{MAP} Stone Gate is the only remaining gate of the Gradec city walls – but that is not the only reason why we include it on our Zagreb Free Walking Route.
The passageway leads from the upper town to the lower town. While the gate itself is historically interesting, the interior is even more intriguing, as it houses an open-air chapel.
Consisting of just a few pews and an encased painting of Mary, the chapel is one of the most unique places to visit in Zagreb. Plaques, which are inscribed with praise and notes of thanks, cover the walls.
Pass through the gate and walk a few steps to the equestrian statue of St. George.
#9 St. George Statue Zagreb
{MAP} Like in many European cities, St. George is a celebrated and martyr of Zagreb. A member of Diocletian’s army, George refused to renounce his Christian faith and was punished by death.
The legend of St. George and the Dragon came about in the 11th century and many princess fables are based upon this story. As the tale goes, George slayed the dragon to save the princess – and now thousands of statues depict his victory.
However, very few show George after he killed the dragon. The statue just north of the Stone Gate, however, shows St. George bowing his head to the slayed beast.
Make the hairpin turn around the statue onto Radiceva Street and walk south.
#10 Radiceva Street and Bloody Bridge
{MAP} The long sloping Radiceva Street (once called Long Street), is lined with shops – as it has been since the 19th century. We believe it is one of the prettiest streets in Zagreb. Enjoy a leisurely stroll to the street named Kravi Most, which translates to Bloody Bridge.
No longer a bridge (and thankfully not bloody), Kravi Most marks that site of the crossing that connected Kaptol to Gradec. Due to the many disputes over watermill rights, conflicts often erupted here between citizens of the two towns, earning it the moniker “Bloody Bridge.”
To continue your Zagreb Walk, turn left (east) onto Kravi Most Street and walk to Tkalciceva Street. Turn left (north) and walk up the street.
#11 Tkalciceva Street Zagreb
{MAP} Tkalciceva, the riverbed-turned-café-lined-lane, is one of the most popular streets in the Zagreb. Outdoor tables and chairs stretch the entirety of the pedestrian-only area. Families, couples and dog walkers parade up and down the length of the famous Zagreb pedestrian lane.
In the summertime, patrons sit in the shade under wide umbrellas – and the cafes and restaurants get particularly busy in the evening. During the winter months, sunny spots are coveted and warm drinks, like mulled wine, are the beverage of choice. If you need a break from your free walking tour of Zagreb, this is the place to do it!
Walk north along Tkalciceva to the Oliver Twist bar on the right-hand (east) side of the street. Take the stairs on the south side that lead into Opatovina Park (and pause to admire the Zagreb street art). Turn right (south) to exit the park onto Opatovina Ulica and walk south.
#12 Opatovina Street (Beer Street Zagreb)
{MAP} At the top of Opatovina Street is the historic Church of St. Francis of Assisi, which dates to the 13th century.
Although rather plain on the outside, the interior is highlighted by beautiful stained-glass windows and a blue-and-gold ceiling. Step inside if the doors are open to take a look, then continue walking south.
Lined with pubs, Opatovina Street has earned the well-deserved nickname “Beer Street.” Most of the bars here are dedicated to selling craft beer. The Craft Room and Tolkien’s House typically have the best selection. Check for anything from Nova Runda…our favorite Croatian Craft Brewery!
At the south end of Opatovina, take the stairs down into Dolac Market.
#13 Zagreb Public Market
{MAP} A highlight of our walk, the bright and cheerful Dolac Market has been the city center market in Zagreb since 1930. Colorfully striped umbrellas shade long lines of simple vendor stalls.
In-season produce – like oranges, strawberries, apples and heaps of green veggies – is piled high atop tables. Vendors use traditional weight-and-balance scales to measure out the goods.
Numerous cafes surround the square – and weary shoppers and vendors sit to sip coffee throughout the day. The market starts closing by mid-afternoon, so make sure to arrive early when it’s still in full swing!
Exit the market from the northeast corner (near Pekarne Dinara). Walk east and cross Kaptol Ulica to the Cathedral.
#14 Zagreb Cathedral
{MAP} Visiting the Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Zagreb for free – and we recommend allowing a little extra time to explore the church and grounds.
Construction of the Cathedral dates to 1094, the same year the Diocese of Zagreb was first established. However, the church was damaged in an attack, then destroyed and rebuilt in the 13th century. In the 15th century, fortifications (some of which still remain) were built to better protect it from invaders.
Then, in 1880 (and again in 2020), the Cathedral sustained severe damage from an earthquake. Prior to the Zagreb 2020 earthquake, the twin gothic spires reached the height of 355 feet and could be seen from nearly everywhere in the city.
The cathedral’s interior is heavily decorated with works of art and large chandeliers (rumored to have come from Las Vegas, of all places!). Alojzije Stepinac, the Archbishop of Zagreb during World War II, is buried behind the main altar and many people offer flowers and candles around his monument.
In the square in front of the Zagreb Cathedral is a monument to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Behind the church is a small green park, Ribnjak, which is entered from the east, not from the church grounds.
Walk south on Ulica Tome Bakaca, which slopes downhill to Jelacic Square.
#15 Jelacic Square (Main Square Zagreb)
{MAP} Named for Ban Josip Jelacic, the governor responsible for uniting Kaptol and Gradec, this is the city’s most expansive and busiest square.
Designed in 1641, the space was originally the site of fairs and the marketplace. An equestrian statue dedicated to Jelacic stands in the middle of the square, facing south (rather than its initial north-facing position, which symbolized his defiant stance against Hungary).
On the east end is the Mandusevac Fountain – which sits over a natural spring that provided water to the citizens of Zagreb until the late 1800s. Today it’s where you’ll find the Zagreb Advent candles and wreath during Christmastime.
A simple clock stands on the west end of the square – and is a popular meeting spot for locals. If someone says, “Meet me under the clock,” this is the place. Tracks mark the southern boundary, where a never-ending stream of blue Zagreb trams pass by, moving people throughout the vibrant city.
That completes our Free Tour of Old Town Zagreb – but keep reading for a few more fun activities!
Zagreb Map
Use this link to Google for an online version of our Zagreb Walking Tour Map below.
Guided Zagreb Tours
Our outlined walking tour of the Zagreb historic core is a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city. That said, guided tours of Zagreb can also be fun and interesting. We are featuring a few of the top themed tours in Zagreb.
Guided Zagreb Walk
Join an English speaking guide on a small group tour of Zagreb. On the 2.5-hour walk, see the top landmarks, learn some history and ride the funicular. Read the fabulous reviews and make your booking in advance.
Zagreb Private Tour
Visitors who prefer a personal introduction to Zagreb can hire a guide for a private tour. On this 2-hour tour, participants will receive undivided attention from the expert guide.
Food Tour in Zagreb
We love Croatian Cuisine! One of the ideal ways to sample an array of local fare is on a Zagreb Foodie Tour. Join a guide and fellow travelers to explore the Zagreb culinary scene – from market to table.
Zagreb Bike Tour
Prefer to hop on a bike and pedal your way to the top sights? A Zagreb city guide leads the way through downtown and shares personal stories along the way. Sign up today!
Bus Tour of Zagreb
The Zagreb sightseeing bus is another great way to see the sights in the Old Town and beyond. The Hop On Hop Off Zagreb City Tour Bus allows passengers to disembark for deeper exploration and continue on at your leisure.
Free Guided Zagreb Walking Tour
Free Spirit Tours offers daily guided walks of historic Zagreb. Just be aware that due to regulations there is a small fee – and guests are expected to tip the guide as well.
If you are planning a multi-day itinerary, consider including one of these popular Day Trips from Zagreb!
More Things To Do in Zagreb, Croatia
Our Old City Tour of Zagreb ends at Jelacic Square, but there are a few nearby sights you may want to add to your Zagreb sightseeing list.
Zagreb 360
One of the first skyscrapers in Croatia stands on the southwestern corner of Jelacic Square (across the tracks).
Built in 1959, the glass structure was quite modern for its time. Today, there is a 16th floor observation deck and café that provides sensational views over the city. (Temporarily Closed)
Green Horseshoe Park
Not just one park, the Green Horseshoe is 8 blocks linked together in the shape of a (you guessed it) horseshoe.
The intercity green space, which includes Zagreb’s botanical gardens, is also home to the city’s main Christmas Market and is absolutely one of the Best Parks in Zagreb!
Gric Tunnel Zagreb
Built in World War II as an air raid shelter, the Gric Tunnel is now open to the public as a pedestrian passageway beneath Gradec. Just part of a fascinating web of tunnels, the Gric tunnel not only provides a shortcut, but is also a nice place to cool off in the summertime.
Mirogoj Cemetery
Although a graveyard may seem an unlikely tourist attraction, the Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb is more an outdoor art exhibition set in the middle of a park. It’s just a short ride to the famous Zagreb Cemetery and buses depart near the Cathedral.
Read more in our Terrific Things To Do in Zagreb article!
Planning a Trip to Zagreb, Croatia
We know there’s a lot more to planning a Zagreb trip than figuring out what sights to see. Start your preparation with our Guide to Planning a Croatia Vacation. We share need-to-know details and pertinent information for your travels.
More Croatia Destinations
Croatia is a diverse but small country – and visitors can experience several locations in a short time.
To plan your route, use our detailed Croatia 2 Week Itinerary along with our Sample Itineraries for 7 Days. Then discover more about the destinations in Croatia with these detailed guides.
- Things To Do in Split – and our free Split Walking Tour
- What To Do in Dubrovnik – and our Dubrovnik Free Walking Tour
- DIY Walking Tour of Zadar – and suggested Zadar Day Trips
- Top Things To Do in Rovinj
- What To See in Sibenik
- Top Makarska Things To Do
- Why Visit Osijek?
- Also interested in Croatian Island Hopping? Sail away to Hvar, Vis and Korcula with our complete guides and insider tips!
Stay Organized for your Vacation to Croatia
As you make your plans for Croatia, it is necessary to keep track of all the details. Use our Travel Planner Printables to stay on top of your trip plans!
What to Pack for Your Visit to Zagreb
You don’t need much to complete our free walk of Zagreb, but we do recommend packing the following items. Now, grab our Free Packing Checklist and let’s go to Croatia!
Walking Shoes
Our walk for Zagreb may only cover 1.5 miles, but there are hills and cobblestone streets to consider. Be sure to wear a pair of comfortable travel shoes to explore Old Town Zagreb! I like these shoes by Columbia and Kris prefers these by Merrell.
Water Bottle & Day Pack
There are places to purchase water along the way, but we believe it’s better to carry a collapsible water bottles and refill. There is a public fountain at the end of Opatovina Street, just before the Dolac Market.
You’ll also want to carry a great day bag to organize all of your essential everyday travel items.
Travel Camera for Zagreb Photography
If you are anything like us, you want a great travel camera for snapping tons of pictures. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes incredible photos and is an excellent budget camera for travelers.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for honest tips and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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