As the crisp air brightens my cheeks and little puffs of breath escape from my mouth, I inhale the scent of sizzling sausages and sweet fritule drenched in chocolate. The tantalizing aroma intertwines with Croatian Christmas music and drifts from the cheerfully decorated wooden huts at the Zagreb Christmas Market.
Festive lights and classic Croatia Christmas decorations hang in a canopy over the street. They cast a warm glow onto the revelers as they peruse the wares for sale. It was our first night celebrating Christmas in Croatia and we were just getting an introduction to the famous Advent in Zagreb event, but it was already putting us in a festive mood!
Our site utilizes Affiliate Links. If you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy.
Christmas Markets Zagreb: What You Need To Know
Travelers interested in attending the Zagreb Christmas Markets likely have some of questions…and we’ve got answers! Below, we include everything you need to know about the Christmas Market in Zagreb.
In addition to highlighting specific events at Advent Zagreb – like the ice rink and must-see squares – we also include details of other Christmas Markets in Croatia. So, are you ready to find out why Christmas in Croatia is the perfect place to be? Of course you are!
{Find details and dates for the Advent Zagreb Program at the end of the article}
Zagreb Advent: Christmas in Europe
Although lesser-known than the famous Christmas Markets in Germany and Austria, the Advent in Zagreb Winter Festival is truly impressive!
We were first intrigued by the Zagreb Christmas Market when glittering images of the celebration flooded our social media feeds. Unlike the stunning coastline photos we’re accustomed to seeing, these featured an entirely different scene. Croatia in winter. And it was beautiful.
Most people don’t think of Zagreb as one of the Best European Cities for Christmas, but ‘Advent u Zagrebu’ has changed that. Croatia in December might be one of the merriest places to be for the holidays, thanks largely to the award-winning Advent in Zagreb!
Why is Zagreb a Great Place to Visit for Christmas?
We’ve been traveling Croatia since 2011, seeking out hidden spots and exploring the best cities. From our very first visit to Zagreb, we were astounded by the incredible number of things to do. But here’s what we’ve also learned: Zagreb in December is amazing!
The capital is adorned with bright Christmas lights, theme-festooned streets and an outdoor ice skating rink. The Zagreb, Croatia Christmas Market, which began as a modest affair in 2002, grew in just a few years to something utterly spectacular. And, each year the Advent Zagreb Festival gets even better.
Best European Destination for Christmas Markets
Advent Zagreb has garnered so much attention that it was bestowed the honor of Best Christmas Market in Europe by European Best Destinations for three consecutive years. We can’t think of a better way to kick off the holiday season than at the Advent in Zagreb, Croatia Festival!
Our Zagreb Christmas Market Review
We have visited the famous European Christmas Markets in London, Frankfurt and Dusseldorf. We have also celebrated Christmas in Amsterdam, Barcelona and Paris.
To be honest – we wondered how the Zagreb, Croatia Christmas market would stack up. After attending the Zagreb Advent Festival, we believe it’s one of the best holiday fairs in Europe!
As we wandered through the decorated lanes each evening, we couldn’t keep the giddy grins from our faces. Advent Zagreb is full of festiveness – and there is nothing quite like a European Christmas Market to usher in the holiday spirit.
With a steaming cup of mulled wine in one hand and the other tucked into the crook of Kris’s arm, we navigated our way through the merriment and beauty of Christmas in Zagreb, Croatia!
What Makes the Zagreb Xmas Market Unique?
Unlike some holiday markets that cluster solely around a single main square, the Zagreb Christmas Market location is appealingly spread throughout the city. Furthermore, each year the Advent Markets in Zagreb evolve and expand.
Booths selling classic Croatian Christmas gifts line the streets and sit in clusters at multiple locations – not just the main Ban Jelačić Square. A live Croatian nativity scene is set up in Kaptol next to the Zagreb Cathedral.
The Gric Tunnel is turned into a festive wonderland. A gazebo in Zrinjevac Park serves as a stage for live music. Fairy tale holiday huts are set up in European Square.
Each district is thoughtfully designed to create a specific ambiance and attract a certain audience. From kid-friendly corners to streets for shopping and eating, and a lane just for ‘fooling around’, visitors can wander the transformed urban spaces and find something unique about them all.
What We Loved about Zagreb Advent
Often, we were drawn down the cobblestone lanes of the oldest part of Zagreb into the Advent Edition of ‘Dvorista’.
These intimate courtyards presented a cozy retreat from the lively celebrations elsewhere in the city. Complete with lounge singer style performances, Dvorista was our favorite part of the Zagreb Christmas market.
We’ve spent weeks celebrating Advent in Zagreb over the years, but haven’t actually stayed for Christmas. However, we can say with certainty that it got us in the holiday spirit and we look forward to seeing what is new each year!
Advent Zagreb Highlights
Zagreb is one of the Best European Christmas Destinations for good reason: the market features an array of places and ways to celebrate the season.
As the winter festival grows, new events are added to the already incredible line up. The following are the most admired Zagreb Christmas Market locations every year.
Ice Skating in Zagreb
The Ice Skating Park is always a popular part of the Zagreb Christmas market holidays. The open-air ice rink is illuminated by the glow of Christmas lights. It is located next to the Art Pavilion on King Tomislav Square in Ledeni Park and is surrounded by traditional Christmas market huts.
The opening of the entire event is kicks off here with a beautiful performance. If you can plan your trip to coincide with the beginning of Advent, don’t miss it!
Zagreb Advent in Zrinjevac Park
Part of the city’s Green Horseshoe, Zrinjevac is one of our Favorite Zagreb Parks anytime of year. However, Advent on Zrinjevac is a magical fairytale of lights and wonder. Huts line the main path and the fountain and gazebo are covered in decorations.
The market in Zrinjevac is home to several Croatian Christmas traditions, including homemade ornaments and classic holiday fare. On select evenings, there are live performances from the gazebo, adding to the festivities.
Christmas in Zagreb on Strossmayer
Advent on Strossmayer is one of the best holiday markets in the Zagreb Upper Town. The lane, which is lit in a dazzling array of lights, is lined with pop-up cafes serving mulled wine and festive drinks. Don’t miss the views over the city – or the fun Christmas-themed cut-out photo ops!
Top Things To Eat at the Christmas Market in Zagreb
Wherever our wandering wonderland trail took us, we always found rows of little huts selling holiday gifts and serving Christmastime fare. While many booths sell Croatian classics, international holiday foods are also available. We are highlighting some of the must-try Zagreb Christmas Market food.
Croatian Sausages
Heaps of sausages – of which we ate our fair share – are grilled to perfection in small huts during Christmas in Zagreb. There are numerous types of Croatian cured meats to choose from, but our favorite is the Kranjska sausage.
Classic Croatian Christmas Food
Plates of Charcuterie – which often include Zimska salami and Kulen – are another popular option at the Zagreb Advent Market.
However, salty meats aren’t the only Croatia food at the Christmas markets in Zagreb. We saw tempting bowls of goulash and platters of Sarma (cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat), which is a classic holiday meal in the Balkans.
Croatian Christmas Cookies and Sweet Treats
Many booths sell cookies that are cut into stars and wreaths and are prettily packaged to give as gifts. We preferred Paprenjaci – a spicy gingerbread cookie, but Vanilin Kiflice (Vanilla Crescents) are even more in demand.
That said, the most popular treats at every Croatian Christmas market is hot fritule. More than once, we were lured to the booths cranking out the small doughnuts drizzled with warm chocolate sauce.
Kuhano Vino/Mulled Wine
The real treat for us, however, was kuhano vino (mulled wine), which is on offer at every Christmas market in Croatia. The warm, spiced drink flows in an endless stream from nearly all directions, making evenings at Zagreb Advent all the merrier!
Live Music at Advent Zagreb
To further enhance the festive mood of Advent in Zagreb, live music drifts down the streets from stages all around the city. Entertained by the varied performances – we were astounded by the sheer number of musical acts at the Zagreb winter festival.
We witnessed rock bands, brass bands, jazz singers, women’s choirs, children’s chorales and folk dancers performing classic holiday tunes. Randomly peppered in are hits from nearly every decade!
Zagreb Christmas Tour
One of the fun ways to experience the market is to join a tour. With a local guide to lead the way, participants visit the best Zagreb Advent events and learn about Christmas in Croatia from someone who actually lives there.
Find out about timeless Croatian traditions, get the details on Licitar Hearts and taste typical holiday treats on a small group tour through the Zagreb festive markets. Book it!
Zagreb Christmas Market Calendar
The upcoming Zagreb Advent program dates are: November 30, 2024 to January 7, 2025.
Be aware that not all of the individual markets start at the same time. Some of the Christmas Zagreb Markets open later in the program or only run on weekends. You can find additional details and updates for Advent Zagreb on the Visit Zagreb Advent Official Website.
Where is the Zagreb Christmas Market?
We’ve shared with you our favorite spots, but events take place all over the city. Some locations also change year over year. You can get a map at the Zagreb Tourist Information on the main square.
They can also provide details about other festivities occurring in December, such as the Zagreb Christmas Lanterns and NYE celebrations.
Things To Do in Zagreb for Winter
Wondering what to do in Zagreb in December? While Advent is the biggest Zagreb event, there is certainly more things to do if you are visiting Croatia in winter.
One of the great ways to discover the city is on foot. Spend the days exploring using our step-by-step self-guided Zagreb Walking Tour. Just be sure to bundle up, as it does get chilly in the wintertime!
Looking for more ideas for your Croatia Itinerary? Discover more of the region with our suggestions for ideal Day Trips from Zagreb.
Zagreb, Croatia New Year’s Eve
If you are ringing in the New Year in Croatia, then Zagreb is the place to be! The New Year’s Eve program can be found here. Also remember, if you are going to be in Zagreb in January, the Advent Festival runs through the first week of the month!
Essential Croatian Phrases
Croatians are passionate and welcoming people. Before you travel to Advent in Zagreb, Croatia, learn a few words in the local language.
Even though locals generally speak English very well, it’s appreciated when visitors learn at least a few words in Croatian.
- Hvala is how you say Thank You.
- Molim is the Croatian word for Please.
- Dobar Dan is the formal way to say Good Day.
- Dobra Vecer means Good Evening.
- Sretan Božić (SRE-tahn BOH-zhich) is how you say Merry Christmas in Croatian
- Sretna Nova Godina is Croatian for Happy New Year
More Christmas Markets in Croatia
While the Advent in Zagreb Festival is the largest in the country, there are other cities where you can spend your Christmas holiday in Croatia. Merry markets take place in town centers all around the country making it simple to create a Croatian Christmas Itinerary!
Christmas Markets in Split, Croatia
Celebrating Christmas in Split is a lovely idea! The Split Christmas Market is set up along the Riva as well as in selected city squares and parks. We have attended the Split Christmas Fair several times – and found it to be quaint, jovial and full of friends and families enjoying the atmosphere.
Read our list of Top Things To Do in Split for tips about visiting the city. You can find more information about the Christmas Fair in Split on the Visit Split Website.
Dubrovnik Christmas Market
The Christmas Markets in Dubrovnik are located in the historic city center along the famous Stradun. Winter is actually a great time to visit Dubrovnik as the city is almost completely void of other tourists. Read our tips for What To Do in Dubrovnik and find more information about the Christmas celebrations here.
Zadar, Croatia Holiday Market
The Advent Zadar Festival fills the streets of the old town and runs from late November through early January. Get all the details about this year’s program on the Official Website. Be sure to also use our Self-Guided Walking Tour to the Top Zadar Sights!
Advent in Osijek, Croatia
After our first visit to the Zagreb Advent event, we traveled east to the region of Slavonia and the city of Osijek. Although far from the tourist trail, there are many reasons to Visit Osijek, Croatia – including the Advent Osijek winter festival!
Croatia at Christmas Time
While Advent in Zagreb and the other bigger cities get all the hype during the holiday season, there is plenty of cheer to go around.
Smaller towns, like Stari Grad on Hvar Island, feature an intimate Christmas Market. Even visiting Plitvice Lakes in Wintertime can feel Christmassy, especially if there is snow!
Travel Tips For Visiting Zagreb in Winter
Now that you know this year’s Zagreb Christmas Market dates, it’s time to start planning your trip. We are sharing our honest advice – including the best way to get there, where to stay and what to pack!
Planning a Trip to the Christmas Market Zagreb Event
The Zagreb, Croatia Christmas Market is one of the city’s most popular events – so a little pre-planning is essential.
First, read our Top Trip Planning Tips for Croatia. Then, if you are traveling from overseas, you can find more advice in our article, How To Plan a Vacation to Europe.
As you start making your plans for Zagreb at Christmas, staying organized is key! We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner to stay on top of all the details.
Zagreb Weather in December
Visitors can expect Croatia at Christmas weather to be chilly – especially in the capital. Zagreb winter weather is typically quite cold with highs in the 40Fs and lows in the mid 30Fs. Snow is possible – as is a wintery mix.
Be aware that due to it’s unique geography, the winter weather in Croatia varies drastically from north to south. Travelers will find much milder climates and more sunshine along the southern Dalmatian Coast.
How To Get to Zagreb, Croatia
Getting to Zagreb in Christmas season can be a bit trying. There are no direct flights to Zagreb from the United States and far fewer frequencies from other places in Europe.
That said, most major European hubs – such as London, Frankfurt and Amsterdam – provide flights to Zagreb in the wintertime. We share our hacks for finding cheap airfare in our article, How To Find the Best Flights.
Additionally, it is possible to get to Zagreb by train or bus from regional destinations like Mostar, Belgrade, Ljubljana, Vienna or Budapest.
Where To Stay for Zagreb Advent
Advent in Zagreb has fast become one of the city’s biggest events – meaning accommodations can fill up quickly during the holiday season. Before you start searching, read our Tips for Finding the Best Hotels.
Although celebrations take place all over the city, we suggest choosing lodging in the center. If you are looking for place to stay during Christmas in Zagreb, take a look at these top-rated hotels (based on guest reviews).
- Hotel Central – Make reservations early; December weekends book up fast!
- Sheraton Zagreb Hotel – Good location and pretty affordable rates, too!
- Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria – Cozy rooms, good breakfast and central location!
- Hotel Orient Express – Budget hotel close to train and bus stations!
What To Pack for your Zagreb Christmas Market Trip
Packing for winter trips can often be tricky. We already mentioned that Zagreb in Christmastime can be cold, so you will want to make sure you pack accordingly.
We have a few Zagreb in winter necessities – but you should read all our packing hacks , too. For now, grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Croatia!
Appropriate Winter Wear
Because it will be chilly, be sure to pack a winter coat, hat and gloves. Also check the forecast before your trip – and bring a travel umbrella or raincoat, if necessary.
Furthermore, you will want to pack clothing that can be layered. Daytime temperatures will likely be much warmer than the evenings.
Versatile Shoes
Walking is the best way to get to the different Zagreb Christmas markets, so make sure to pack good city walking shoes or comfortable boots for your trip. Check out our reviews of the Best Travel Shoes!
Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase, you’ll also want a great day bag for your daily adventures in Zagreb.
We recommend carrying a pack that is large enough to stow everything you need, plus extra space for gifts from the Zagreb, Croatia Christmas Markets!
Travel Camera
Christmas in Zagreb is beautiful! Make sure to bring an actual travel camera to capture the sights. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18/135mm lens. This set-up takes amazing pictures in various conditions, but is easy to use and a well-priced budget camera, as well!
Croatia Travel Insurance
You can choose to insure your entire Vacation to Croatia with an affordable policy from a reliable company, like 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 advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for additional tips and find country-specific information on our Travel Guides Page!
Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board.
Comments are closed.