As much as we love the old walled cities of Croatia, there is often little green space. One of the fabulous things about the capital city of Zagreb is that the region is lush with nature parks. All reachable on foot or by tram or bus, we discovered 9 Zagreb parks that cured our craving for nature!
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9 Best Parks in Zagreb, Croatia
Highlighted below are the best parks in Zagreb, Croatia. For each, we include a link to more information and a map location. At the end of the post, we provide a useful map of all the top green spaces in Zagreb.
Looking for more activities? Check out our complete list of Things To Do in Zagreb!
#1 Maksimir Park
Maksimir is just a short tram ride east of city center Zagreb. Opened in 1794, it’s the oldest of all the parks in Zagreb, Croatia. In addition to the numerous trails, there are five lakes and a zoo. Map | Info
#2 Mirogoj Zagreb Cemetery
Not our usual idea of spending time in nature, however Zagreb’s cemetery is lush with vegetation and magnificent architecture.
Designed by one of Zagreb’s famous architects, Herman Bolle, it was opened in 1876 as a cemetery for all religions and includes expansive burial grounds, arcades and monuments.
Some of Zagreb’s most famous people have been laid to rest at Mirogoj Cemetery, including the first president of the Republic of Croatia. Map | Info
#3 Jarun Lake Park
Southwest of the city center, near the Sava River, you will find Jarun Lake and the surrounding park. The lakeside paths attract joggers, bikers and roller bladers.
Looking for a Zagreb beach? The southeast and northwest portion of Lake Jarun has a pebbly shoreline for sunbathing.
There are numerous cafes found along the stretch of beach where families and friends gather on sunny Zagreb weekends. Map | Info
#4 Medvednica Nature Park
Medvednica Mountain is on the north side of Zagreb and encompasses an area of 88 square miles of forest.
Within the park, there are several hiking trails, which are easily accessible via public transportation. The tallest peak at Medvednica Park, Sljeme, is an impressive 3,396 feet. Map | Info
#5 Strossmayer Promenade and Gric Park
Nicknamed Strossmartre because it exudes a Parisian flair, Strossmayer Promenade is a pleasant escape from the bustling city.
Occupying the space where ancient walls once stood, the southwestern portion of the promenade features some of the best Zagreb views, leafy trees and benches.
At the western end is the romantic Gric Park. Complete with a lovely fountain and planned gardens, the small space is a true retreat from the city. Map | Info
#6 Dubravkin Put Zagreb
We literally stumbled on this path, Dubravkin Put, that is west of the Zagreb Gric Tunnel and part of the Tuskanac Forest Park. The nearly two mile trail runs through a forested area north of the city to Cmrok.
There is a theater and restaurant near the city…and trekkers who want to loop back through neighborhoods, can use these directions. Map | Info
#7 Green Horseshoe Zagreb
Just south of the historic city center, a series of eight squares in the shape of a horseshoe combine to create one of the best parks in Zagreb, Croatia.
Each one unique, some feature fountains and statues – but they are all surrounded by excellent architecture, once the mansions of Croatia’s wealthy.
Not-to-be-missed is Zrinjevac Park, which features two ponds, a fountain and gazebo (and is the closest to the city center). It’s also the location of one of the best Zagreb Christmas Markets!
The pleasant Zagreb Botanical Garden sits on the southwest corner of the horseshoe and has a picturesque lily-pad lake, which is filled with turtles and crossed by a red footbridge.
Our favorite Zagreb park, however, is King Tomislav Park. It features his statue at the southern end, the yellow Art Pavilion at the north end, a fountain in the center and an expansive green lawn that is ideal for lounging. Map | Info
#8 Ribnjak Park Zagreb
Located behind the Zagreb Cathedral (to the east), Ribnjak Park is the perfect place for a quick nature retreat.
Named for the fishing ponds that were once found in the area (but have long been filled in), the space features tall shady trees, a small pond, a playground and a few memorials.
After a day of Zagreb Sightseeing, it’s an excellent spot to relax and is ideal for a picnic, too! Map | Info
#9 Bundek Lake Zagreb
Located in Novi Zagreb and near the banks of the Sava River, Bundek Park is a favorite Zagreb park for both locals and tourists.
In addition to the crisscrossing trails throughout, there is a man-made lake with a big beach. (Yes, another Zagreb, Croatia beach!) Map | Info
Zagreb Parks Map
Use this Google Map for the online version of our Zagreb map to all the prime parks!
Before You Go to Zagreb
- Zagreb is a walkable city…but only if you have the right travel shoes! I (Sarah) travel with lightweight trainers by New Balance and Kris prefers trail shoes by Merrell.
- We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Vacation to Croatia. Rather than relying on your phone, upgrade to an actual camera. We travel with a Canon Rebel that takes beautiful pictures and is a great value camera.
- Make sure to have a good guidebook and your favorite day bag to carry those everyday essential travel items!
- If you haven’t already obtained insurance for your trip, consider traveling protected with World Nomads.
Planning a Complete Croatia Itinerary? Great! Be sure to read our detailed guides to Rovinj, Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Makarska and Sibenik!
Looking to do some Croatian Island Hopping? We’ve got you covered for the best things to do on Hvar, Korcula, Vis and Brac!
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