Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, pulses with life. It has all the tell-tale signs of a true European metropolis – from grandiose architecture to cobbled streets.
Many of the best sights are hidden in the Old Town Zagreb lanes and strolling on foot is the best way to discover them. You can see it all on our DIY Zagreb Walking Tour!
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Old Town Self-Guided Zagreb Walking Tour
Zagreb is a Top Destination in Croatia and the historic center is walkable and compact. Long ago two medieval towns, Gradec and Kaptol, merged; creating what is today’s Zagreb city center.
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Zagreb Walking Tour Tips and Details
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.
Our self-guided walking tour of Zagreb covers 1.5 miles and you should allow 1-2 hours to complete it. The actual duration of the walk will depend on your interest level and pace.
Our DIY Zagreb 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 connection to use it. We use a Pocket WiFi Device by GlocalMe.
15 Things To See on a Zagreb Walking Tour
Alright, are you ready to see Zagreb? Super! Lace up your shoes and let’s discover the Croatian capital one step at a time!
#1 Zagreb Funicular
{MAP} Touted as the shortest one 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 travels up and down the hillside every 10 minutes and the ride itself takes less than a minute.
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.
Closure Notice: The funicular is undergoing renovations until mid-2026 – so you’ll have to use the stairs!
At the Upper Funicular Station, stand at the lookout point revealing the urban sprawl. Then turn around to face the…
#2 Lotrscak Tower
{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 left today is the 13th century Kula Lotrscak, which was constructed 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 the city from threats, but rather to keep time synchronized. The canon is still fired daily at noon, so be prepared!
Through the years, the tower has been used as a prison, warehouse, fire station and as a social club.
Today, the interior hosts an art exhibition. For a fee, you can climb the spiral staircase for incredible views. From the tower, walk west into…
#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.
The western end is nicknamed “Strossmartre,” because it evokes a Parisian vibe. In the shade of trees, benches line the walkway, overlooking the city 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 around the edge of the park, which has produced numerous findings.
From the northeast corner of Gric Park, walk east on Vranyczanyeva Ulica to Markovicev. Turn left (north) and go two blocks to Freudenreichova Ulica. Turn right (east) 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 center is St. Mark’s Church, easily recognizable by the colorfully tiled rooftop. It was built in the 13th century, with numerous additions and expansions throughout its history.
The iconic rooftop was added in 1880 and 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 Croatia.
#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 here, 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, or 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 governors 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 in May 1737. It was then completely refurbished in the early 1900s.
Walk south on Cirilometodska Ulica (back towards the tower). On your right, you will pass the Greek-Catholic Co-Cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius (take a peek inside if the doors are open).
On your left, pass the unique Museum of Broken Relationships. Then, 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.
Built by the Jesuits between 1620 and 1632, it 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 and is now the Klovicevi Dvori Art Gallery. Walk along the south side of the church into the…
#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 panorama encompasses the Zagreb Cathedral, the yellow spire of St. Mary’s at Dolac and a jumble of orange-tiled rooftops.
Retrace your steps back to the front of St. Catherine’s. Continue north on Jurja Habdelica to Kamenita Ulica. On the southeast corner is the oldest pharmacy in the city dating to 1355. Walk east on Kamenita to the…
#8 Zagreb Stone Gate and Chapel
{MAP} This is the only remaining gate of the Gradec city walls – but that is not the only reason why we include it on our Zagreb 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…
#9 St. George Statue
{MAP} Like in many European cities, St. George is a celebrated martyr in 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 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 him bowing his head to the slayed beast.
Make the hairpin turn around the statue and walk south on…
#10 Radiceva Street and Bloody Bridge
{MAP} The long sloping Radiceva (once called Long Street), is one of the prettiest streets in Zagreb. Enjoy a leisurely stroll downhill until you reach Kravi Most, which translates to Bloody Bridge.
No longer a bridge (and thankfully not bloody), it 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. Turn left (east) onto Kravi Most and left again (north) and continue along…
#11 Tkalciceva Street
{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 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 walking tour of Zagreb, this is the place to do it.
Walk north on Tkalciceva until you see the Oliver Twist bar on your right. Take the stairs up into Opatovina Park and pause to admire the Zagreb street art. Then, turn right (south) onto…
#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 soaring ceiling. Step inside if the doors are open to take a look, then continue walking south.
Lined with pubs, Opatovina has earned the well-deserved nickname “Beer Street.” Most of the bars here are dedicated to selling craft beer.
Barbeerian and Tolkien’s House typically have the best selection. Check for anything from Nova Runda, it’s our favorite Croatian Craft Brewery! At the south end of Opatovina, take the stairs down into…
#13 Dolac Market
{MAP} This bright and bustling marketplace has been a staple since 1930. Colorfully striped umbrellas shade long lines of simple tables stacked with goods for sale.
In-season produce – like oranges, strawberries, apples and tons of green veggies – is piled high atop tables. Vendors use traditional weight-and-balance scales to measure out orders.
The squat white building on the north end of the square marks the entrance to the indoor meat market. Wine sellers – who pour from taps into plastic bottles – are also located in the subterranean space.
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 try to arrive early when it’s still in full swing!
Exit from the northeast corner (near Pekarne Dinara bakery) and walk east across Kaptol Ulica to the…
#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, it 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 earthquake damage. Prior to the Zagreb 2020 earthquake, the twin gothic spires reached 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. Walk south on Ulica Tome Bakaca, which slopes downhill to…
#15 Ban Josip Jelacic Square (Zagreb Main Square)
{MAP} Named for 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. This is opposite from 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 Zagreb until the late 1800s. Now it’s where you’ll find the Zagreb Advent candles and wreath during Christmastime.
A simple stand with four clocks rises from the west end of the square – and is a popular meeting spot for locals. If someone says, “Meet me under the clocks,” 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 Self Guided Tour of Old Town Zagreb – but keep reading for more fun activities!
Self Guided Walking Tour Zagreb Map
Use this Google Map 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, themed and guided tours of Zagreb can also be fun and interesting!
Guided Zagreb Walk
Join a local 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 reviews and make your booking in advance.
Those who prefer a more personal introduction can hire a dedicated guide for a Zagreb Private Tour.
Food Tour in Zagreb
We love Croatian Cuisine! One of the ideal ways to sample an array of local fare is on this Zagreb Foodie Tour. Join a guide and fellow travelers to explore the 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 group through downtown and shares personal stories along the way. Sign up today!
If you’re planning a longer stay, check out more Zagreb Things To Do and consider these popular Day Trips from Zagreb!
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
To plan your best route, read our Croatia 2 Week Itinerary along with our Sample Itineraries for 7 Days. Then, discover more with our detailed guides below!
- Things To Do in Split – and our Free Walking Tour
- What To Do in Dubrovnik – and our DIY Dubrovnik Walk
- Free Walking Tour of Zadar – and our suggested Zadar Day Trips
- Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes
- Top Things To Do in Rovinj
- Also interested in Croatian Island Hopping? Sail away to Hvar, Vis and Korcula!
Stay Organized for your Vacation to Croatia
As you make your plans for Croatia, keep track of all the details with our Travel Planner Printables!
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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