Zagreb: The Heart of Croatia and the Perfect Starting Point Before Exploring the Coast

#croatianislands Before heading to Croatia’s stunning beaches, I decided to spend a day in Zagreb, the country’s vibrant capital. Often overlooked by travelers rushing to the Adriatic, Zagreb offers a unique glimpse into Croatia’s continental life, with charming streets, rich history, and lively cafes. #zagreb #croatia 🚆 Why Zagreb? As the largest city in Croatia, Zagreb is a great hub for getting to know the country’s culture and daily life. Here, you’ll find Austro-Hungarian architecture, colorful markets, and locals enjoying a relaxed coffee culture that contrasts with the fast pace of coastal tourism. 🚗 How to get there If you’re flying into Croatia, Zagreb Airport is well-connected to European cities. I booked my flight with Trip.com and found affordable options from major hubs. From the airport, it’s just a 30-minute drive to the city center. 💸 Daily budget ✔️ Meals: €15–25 for a nice sit-down meal. ✔️ Transport: €4–6 for a day pass on trams and buses. ✔️ Attractions: Many sights are free or under €10. 📍 Top things to see and do ✨ Upper Town (Gornji Grad): Stroll through cobblestone streets, visit St. Mark’s Church with its iconic tiled roof, and take in views from Lotrščak Tower. ✨ Dolac Market: Zagreb’s famous open-air market where you can sample fresh local produce. ✨ Museum of Broken Relationships: A quirky, emotional museum that’s worth the €5–7 entry. ✨ Zrinjevac Park: Relax among fountains and sculptures in this green oasis. ✨ Ban Jelačić Square: The main square and beating heart of the city. 🌟 Why start here? Spending a day in Zagreb helps you understand Croatia beyond the coast. You’ll see how locals live, taste traditional continental dishes like štrukli, and enjoy a slower pace before heading south. 📌 Tip: Stay overnight to enjoy the city’s evening charm, with locals filling up cafes and restaurants in Tkalčićeva Street.