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Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, pulses with life. It has all the tell-tale signs of a true European metropolis. It’s rich in history, has beautiful architecture, boasts a plethora of cafes and features a humming public transportation network. Visitors can see it all on our DIY Free Zagreb Walking Tour.
Old Town Zagreb Walking Tour 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. Many of the best sights are hidden in the Old Town Zagreb lanes.
Strolling on foot is the best way to discover Zagreb sights. Fellow travelers can follow in our footsteps on our Self-Guided Zagreb Walking Tour for free!
Free Walking Tours Zagreb
We think the best walking tours in Zagreb are self guided adventures. Our outlined Self Guided Walking Tour of Zagreb provides a perfect introduction to the city.
We understand, however, that some travelers would rather follow a Zagreb tourist guide to the top attractions. We highlight some of the best Zagreb walking tours at the end of this article – including popular free tours Zagreb.
Free Zagreb Walking Tour: Tips & Info
We know you are ready to get started, but we have a few tips for your Zagreb sightseeing! While Zagreb, Croatia is a sprawling city, the historic Zagreb Old Town remains the center. The top places to visit in Zagreb are located in close proximity, so even visitors with only one day in Zagreb will be able to see many of the top sights. Our Zagreb city tour covers all the highlights…and more!
Zagreb Walking Tour Details
Our self-guided walking tour of Zagreb covers 1.5 miles. Visitors should allow at least 1-2 hours to complete the Zagreb sightseeing tour. The actual duration of the tour will depend on your interest level and walking pace.
What To Expect: Free Walking Tour Zagreb, Croatia
Our DIY Zagreb Free Walking Tour features the top things to see in Zagreb, Croatia. We include information about each attraction, as well as step-by-step directions and map links so that visitors can easily navigate to each sight.
Additionally, we provide a Zagreb, Croatia map at the end of the post, complete with numbered sight markers of our recommended Zagreb places to visit.
Just be aware that to use the link to the Zagreb city map – and links to each individual sight – you will need a WiFi connection. As international travelers, we use a pocket WiFi device – called GlocalMe – so that we are always connected. We share more tips on what you will need for your Zagreb walking tour a bit later.
Zagreb Public Bathrooms on the Route
There are not many public toilets in the city, but there are a few along the route of our outlined free city tour of Zagreb. Visitors can find restrooms – marked WC – near some of the top attractions.
There is often a fee to use toilets (and sometimes the fee only applies to women’s restrooms). Bathrooms that charge a fee almost always have toilet paper, but we recommend carrying your own, just in case.
- Dolac Market: Toilets are located on the north side of the market and in the underground market.
- Cathedral: There is a restroom outside the church, to the left of the main entrance.
- Near Jelacic Square: Northeast of the square, there are bathrooms underground. Look for the WC sign in the small square just south of the Cathedral.
Old Town Zagreb History
Before setting off on your Zagreb tour, it’s best to have a basic understanding of the history of the area.
Located in the southern foothills of Medvednica mountain, Zagreb developed from two smaller towns – Kaptol and Gradec. When the hill-topping towns originated (in the 11th and 13th centuries, respectively), they were separated by a river. Although the two towns commingled, they were divided – the clergy and cathedral were in Kaptol, while tradespeople and administration were in Gradec.
It was not until 1851, under the leadership of Governor Ban Josip Jelacic, that the two towns officially merged together into the City of Zagreb. In 1898, the river that separated them was diverted, and the riverbed filled in, erasing the distinct line between Kaptol and Gradec.
Then, in 1991, when Croatia declared independence from Yugoslavia, Zagreb became the capital of the new country.
We include everything you need to complete your own free tour of Zagreb. Save, Pin or Bookmark this post so that you can access it when you visit Zagreb, Croatia!
Zagreb Walking Tour: What To See in Zagreb, Croatia
Our walking tour of Zagreb covers 15 sights in the historic center.
Start your Old Town Zagreb walking tour on Tomiceva Ulica at the Lower Funicular Station.
#1 Zagreb Funicular
{MAP} Touted as the shortest funicular in the world, the Zagreb Funicular connects the lower town to the Gradec upper town with just 217 feet of track. Built in the late 1800s, the funicular 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.
Note: Zagreb Funicular Tickets can be purchased at the lower station, but visitors who would rather trek 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} The Kula Lotrscak Tower is the next stop on our Free Zagreb Walking Tour.
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 Gradec. One of the few remnants of the walled city is the 13th century lookout tower, Kula Lotrscak, which was built to stand guard over the southern gate.
In 1877, the Gric Cannon was installed on the tower’s fourth floor. However, the canon 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 inside Kula Lotrscak for incredible 360-degree Zagreb views and an iconic look at St. Mark’s Church from above.
From the Lotrscak Tower, walk west into Strossmayer Park.
#3 Strossmayer Park and Garden
{MAP} The Strossmayer Promenade 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 of the charming promenade 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 planned garden, Park Gric. The romantic park features a fountain and manicured flower beds, but 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 Square is the most beautiful square in the city – and a must-see sight on every Zagreb walking tour.
In the very center of the square is St. Mark’s Church, easily recognizable by the colorfully tiled rooftop (which clearly stands out among the standard orange tiles of nearly all the other rooftops in town). 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 the Coat of Arms for the Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia (which existed prior to becoming part of Yugoslavia) and the one on the right represents the city of Zagreb.
Although most visitors can’t take their eyes off the eye-catching 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, visitors cannot pass through the doorway, as the interior of the church is only open for mass.)
Flanking St. Mark’s Church are the two most important government buildings in Zagreb.
#5 Croatian Government Buildings: Banski Dvori and Sabor
The church is an island in the center of St. Mark’s Square, which is ringed by government buildings.
Banski Dvori
{MAP} On the west side of the square 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 the official residence of the Ban. 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 of St. Mark’s Square is the Sabor, or Croatian Parliament. As the legislative branch of government, the Sabor represents the people. The parliament building was constructed in the 1730s, with the first meeting taking place there in May 1737, and was completely refurbished in the early 1900s.
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 clad in suits coming and going from the buildings (along with a large police presence).
From the center of the square, 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 stop to 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 of the church 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 square on the Gradec Plateau.
#7 Gradec Plateau & Zagreb Lookout Point
{MAP} One of the best viewpoints in Zagreb is from the Gradec Plateau – so don’t skip this stop on our Old Town Zagreb Walking Tour!
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 out of the terraced square and turn right (north) to walk past the front of St. Catherine’s Church and the Klovicevi Dvori Art Gallery. Continue walking north on Jurja Habdelica to Kamenita Ulica. On the southeast corner of the intersection is The Black Eagle, the oldest pharmacy in the city dating to the year 1355. Turn right (east) onto Kamenita, passing the pharmacy, 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 Stone Gate passageway leads from the upper town to the lower town. While the gate itself is historically interesting, the interior of the gate 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. Visitors can stop to rest, say a prayer and light a candle.
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 saint 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 is the story that many princess fables are based upon. 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 (Kravi Most)
{MAP} The long sloping street, Radiceva Street (once called Long Street), is lined with shops – as it has been since the 19th century. We think 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 Street marks that site of the old bridge that crossed the stream and connected Kaptol to Gradec. Due to the many disputes over watermill rights, conflicts often erupted on the bridge 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-street, is one of the most popular streets in the Zagreb. Outdoor tables and chairs stretch the entirety of the pedestrian-only street. Families, couples and dog walkers parade up and down the length of the 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 the colorful Tkalciceva Street to the Oliver Twist café on the right-hand (east) side of the street. Take the stairs on the south side of Oliver Twist 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 on the street are dedicated to selling Croatian craft beer, a concept that is revolutionizing beer across the country.
Note: The Craft Room has the best selection (check the list for anything from Nova Runda…our favorite Croatian craft brewery!) and they have an upstairs balcony with an amazing view, which is accessed via the spiral staircase next to the bar.
At the south end of Opatovina Street, pass through the open square and take the stairs down into Dolac Market.
#13 Zagreb Market
{MAP} A highlight of our Zagreb Free Walking Tour, 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 and vendors use traditional weight-and-balance scales to measure out the goods. Numerous cafes surround the market – and weary shoppers and vendors sit to sip coffee throughout the day.
The underground market is less visually appealing, but worth a walk around to see the different kinds of fish, meat and cheese that are sold in the region. Wine shops – which sell tap wine in plastic bottles – are also found in the below-ground area.
Note: 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 Zagreb 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 around the church to better protect it from invaders.
Then, in 1880 (and again in 2020), the Cathedral sustained severe damage from an earthquake…and reconstruction has been ongoing ever since. Prior to the Zagreb 2020 earthquake, the twin gothic spires reached the height of 355 feet and could be seen from nearly everywhere in Zagreb….now, they are a bit shorter.
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.
From the church, walk south on Ulica Tome Bakaca Street, which slopes downhill to Jelacic Square.
#15 Jelacic Square (Main Square Zagreb)
{MAP} Named for Ban Josip Jelacic (the governor honored for ending serfdom in Croatia and responsible for uniting Kaptol and Gradec into the City of Zagreb), Jelacic Square is Zagreb’s most expansive and busiest square. Designed in 1641, the main square 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 of the square is a fountain – 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 side of the square 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 Maps for our Zagreb Walking Tour Map online. Visitors can also pick up a Zagreb tourist map from the TI.
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 the history and ride the funicular. Read the fabulous reviews and make your booking in advance. Reserve your spot!
Zagreb Private Tour
Visitors who want a personal introduction to Zagreb can hire a guide for a private tour. On a 2-hour tour, participants will personalized attention from the expert guide. Book it here!
Zagreb Food Tour
We love Croatian cuisine! One of the best ways to sample an array of local fare is on a Zagreb Food Tour. Join a Zagreb guide on a tour that explores the Zagreb culinary scene – from the market to restaurants. Get the details!
Zagreb Bike Tour
Rather than walking, hop on a bike and pedal your way to the top sights! A Zagreb city guide leads the way through downtown Zagreb and shares stories of the Upper and Lower towns along the way. Sign up here!
Zagreb Bus Tour
For weary travelers, the Zagreb sightseeing bus is a great way to see the sights in Old Town Zagreb and beyond! The Hop On Hop Off Zagreb City Tour Bus allows passengers to disembark at any of the stops along the way for deeper exploration…and then hop back on the bus to the next sight. Find out more!
Free Guided Zagreb Walking Tour
Zagreb Free Spirit Walking Tours offers daily guided tours 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.
Have more than 1 day in Zagreb? If you are planning a multi-day Zagreb itinerary, consider including one of these popular Day Trips from Zagreb on your to-do list!
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 of parks 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 main Zagreb 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 summer heat.
Mirogoj Cemetery
Although a cemetery seems an unlikely tourist attraction, the Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb is more like an outdoor art exhibition set in the middle of a park. It’s just a short ride to the Zagreb Cemetery and buses depart near the Cathedral.
Find all of our tips in our Terrific Things To Do in Zagreb article!
Planning a Trip to Zagreb, Croatia
We know that there is a lot more to planning a Zagreb trip than figuring out what sights to see.
Start your trip planning 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 easily visit several destinations. Use our guide to the Best Places to See in Croatia to get started on your trip plans – and hop over to our Croatia Travel Page for all of our tips on visiting the country.
To best plan your route through Croatia, use our detailed Croatia Itinerary that highlights a perfect route for your vacation.
Discover more destinations in Croatia with our detailed guides.
- Things To Do in Split – and a Split Walking Tour
- What To Do in Dubrovnik – and a Dubrovnik Walking Tour
- Walking Tour of Zadar
- 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 walking tour of Zagreb, Croatia, but we do recommend packing the following items for your day of sightseeing in Zagreb. You can find all our advice on our Packing Blog Page – and you can grab your Free Packing Checklist here!
Walking Shoes for Zagreb
Our Zagreb walking tour 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.
Sunscreen and Umbrella
Be prepared for the elements! The sun is intense in Croatia, so we recommend putting on sunscreen before you begin your Zagreb city tour – and bring it with you to reapply. You may also want to bring a wide-brimmed hat that will shade your eyes. In case of rainy weather, bring along a travel umbrella (which can also provide shade, if need be!) and a raincoat.
Water Bottle & Day Pack
Remember to bring a bottle of water for your self-guided walking tour of Zagreb. Yes, there are places to purchase water along the way, but we think it is better to be prepared with a refillable water bottle – these collapsible water bottles are great for travelers!
There is a public fountain at the end of Opatovina Street, just before the Dolac Market where you can refill.
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 on your tour of Zagreb! We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens, which takes incredible photos.
We think it is well worth it to upgrade to a DSLR camera for your trip to Croatia!
Zagreb Sightseeing Map and WiFi Access
Although we include map links to each sight and a Zagreb Old Town Map of Sights for easy navigation, visitors will need internet connection to access them. We travel with a WiFi hotspot, GlocalMe, to ensure we always have a secure connection.
Visitors who prefer paper maps (like me!), may want to purchase a Zagreb attractions map in advance of their trip – like this one!
Croatia Travel Insurance
Consider the affordable rates and coverage for travel insurance on World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page!
We Want To Know: Are there any sights you would add to our Old Town Zagreb Walking Tour? Do you have any Zagreb sightseeing tips? Give us your best advice in the comments below!
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