The upper town (Gornji Grad) of Zagreb is its heart and the historic core of the city. Here, Ban Jelačić Square stands out as the busy meeting point for locals. Choose here as your starting point for exploring the city. Ilica Street stretches out from here in front of you. Take a stroll (and maybe shop) here since it is one of the longest and busiest shopping streets with cafes and restaurants spread out along.
You'll quickly find St. Mark's Church in the upper town, for it can be easily spotted for its colorful tiled roof depicting the medieval coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia as well as the city's emblem. The eye-catching combination of the colors of the Croatian flag- bright red, navy blue, and white- will dazzle for quite some time.
When you continue one street up, you’ll come across the Lotrščak Tower, another emblematic structure. Climb up to catch a far-reaching view of the city lying beneath you. Plus, in the same neighborhood stands the biggest sacred building in all of Croatia, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Visiting inside is temporarily unavailable, but you’ll still enjoy its bright white exterior.
Descending from the Upper Town, the Lower Town (Donji Grad) spreads out with its Austro-Hungarian architecture, spacious squares, and parks, including the Zrinjevac Park. This area is a testament to Zagreb's 19th-century expansion and houses many museums, galleries, and theaters, such as the Croatian National Theatre.
Zagreb is a capital that offers all branches of culture from classical to far alternative. The selection of museums is more interesting than many big cities, with a wide selection of contemporary art, history, and interactive and quirky collections. The cultural calendar of Zagreb is also full all year round with events, exhibitions, and festivals. For an even livelier time in Zagreb, plan your trip around the Zagreb Film Festival, INmusic Festival, and Advent in Zagreb, which has been voted the best Christmas market in Europe several times.
Zagreb doesn’t only have an urban character. It is also dotted with parks and green spaces. Maksimir Park, the city's largest park, is a perfect spot for relaxation, recreation, and nature walks. For those seeking adventure, Medvednica Mountain, just a short drive from the city, offers hiking, biking, and skiing options with beautiful views of the Zagreb area.