TOP 10 Free Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia [100% worth doing]

The 10 Best Things to Do in Zagreb for Free

Right below, I have listed the very best things to do in Zagreb that are 100% free, and completely worth adding to your Croatia itinerary.

Let’s jump right to it!👇

1. Take a Free Walking Tour

One of the best ways to get a comprehensive overview of Zagreb is to take part in one of the free walking tours available. These tours are organized by local guides who have extensive knowledge on the city’s culture and history. They offer great insights into Zagreb’s most famous landmarks and attractions, as well as an insider’s look into the city’s hidden gems.

On the two-hour tour, your expert guide will take you through the main sites including Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, and the Stone Gate. You’ll even get the chance to ask questions, learn about the city’s past, and meet other like-minded travelers.

Ban Jelačić square

While the tour is technically free, these types of walking tours operate on a tip-based system. This means that while there is no set price, it is expected to give your guide something for the time and knowledge they shared with you. If you’re on a budget, rest assured that you can pay as much or as little as you’d like.

Alternatively, you might opt for small-group walking tours that come with a reasonable price, such as this one (20 EUR). The benefit here is having a clear itinerary and activities, along with the convenience of pre-booking your spot online.

2. Hike on Sljeme Mountain

Just a stone’s throw away from the bustling streets of Zagreb lies the majestic Medvednica Mountain, with Sljeme proudly standing at its highest peak. Its proximity to the city makes it an easily accessible natural retreat, attracting both seasoned hikers and first-timers alike.

View from the top of Sljeme Mountain

For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, Sljeme offers a network of trails that wind their way to its summit. The trails vary in distance and difficulty, with the easiest route taking around 2.5 hours to complete. Alternatively, the summit can be reached via a scenic ride on the newly constructed cable car for a fee.

Once at the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Zagreb set against the backdrop of verdant valleys and tree canopies that spread as far as the eye can see. It’s such a rewarding sight, making the journey to the top an unmissable and free adventure for anyone visiting Zagreb.

3. Explore the Public Parks

There is no shortage of gorgeous green spaces in the city of Zagreb. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot for a picnic or just want to stretch your legs, then head to the city’s many public parks.

The main park is Maksimir, one of the oldest public parks in this part of Europe featuring sprawling lawns and 5 beautiful lakes surrounded by lush trees and flowerbeds. This park is also home to the Zagreb Zoo, a major tourist attraction. While there is a fee to enter the zoo and admire its exotic residents, exploring the expansive grounds of Maksimir Park is absolutely free.

Maksimir Park

Another park located south of the Sava River is Bundek, a favorite relaxation oasis for both locals and tourists. The heart of Bundek is a large man-made lake, around which meandering paths invite visitors to run, walk, rollerblade, and even ride bikes. There are a few outdoor playgrounds as well, making it a great spot for young families.

Finally, Jarun Lake, situated on the west side of the city, is Zagreb’s premier recreational haven. It has long been the go-to park for biking, roller skating, swimming, tennis, and even baseball. Jarun Lake is an active person’s dream. Yet, it is equally appealing to those seeking a relaxing coffee break at one of the many cafes that line its picturesque shores.

4. Discover Zagreb Cathedral

The Zagreb Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of Blessed Mary, is an iconic Zagreb landmark and centerpiece of the city skyline. Boasting twin spires that tower at 108 meters in height, the Neo-Gothic style cathedral is an architectural masterpiece.

Visitors are welcome to wander inside and marvel at the marble altars, statues, and tomb of the incredibly important and influential Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac. The cathedral’s organ is also a marvel to behold as it is recognized as one of the top ten finest and top-quality organs in the world.

Fun fact: The Zagreb cathedral has been covered in scaffolding since 1990 when renovation of its two towers began. And just when it neared the end of its restoration in 2020, an earthquake hit Zagreb, causing structural damage to the towers and further extending the construction. Due to these events, many of Zagreb’s locals have never actually seen the cathedral in its entirety!

Yet, in all its forms – scaffolded or otherwise – the cathedral remains a monument to faith, history, and architectural brilliance of the city of Zagreb.

5. Peruse the stalls at Dolac Market

One of the top free activities in Zagreb is a visit to the iconic Dolac Market, just a stone’s throw away from the main Ban Josip Jelacic Square.

Under a canopy of red umbrellas, local vendors proudly showcase their daily harvest ranging from fresh vegetables to homemade cheeses, honey, nuts, and dried fruit. Dating back to 1930, Dolac Market has long been the city’s bustling trading hub where regional farmers come together every day to offer their finest produce.

Adjacent to this bustling space is a fresh fish market beckoning marketgoers with its daily catch, much of it sourced directly from the Adriatic Sea earlier that morning. Venture to the underground section of the market to discover an alcove of vendors selling meats, artisanal pasta, and other dry goods. It is also possible to find some exotic fruits here as well, like papaya, mango, and even fresh coriander.

As you wander through the stalls, some generous sellers might even offer you a taste of their goods. It’s the perfect destination to snag budget-friendly bites while supporting the local community.

6. Wander the Upper Town

Get lost in Zagreb’s Upper Town, the city’s oldest and most enchanting district, where charm awaits at every turn. Stepping onto its narrow cobblestone streets, lined with historic buildings, will instantly transport you to the past. Of course, you can’t miss the most renowned landmark of the Upper Town, St. Mark’s Church, a magnificent 13th-century structure with an intricate tiled roof.

St Mark’s church

While exploring the Upper Town, make sure to visit the beautiful parks Bele IV and Grič. These serene parks offer delightful strolls and breathtaking city views. You might even stumble upon free events like jazz music festivals or bustling Christmas markets if you visit during wintertime.

View over Zagreb Cathedral from the Upper Town

Just below these parks is the historic Strossmayer Promenade, a vibrant summer hotspot that is a favorite among locals. During the months of July and August, the Strossmayer Promenade features wooden kiosks selling tasty bites and refreshing drinks while a live band plays in the evenings.

Another free attraction in the Upper Town is the Stone Gate, the eastern gate to the medieval town and Zagreb’s most important shrine. Legend has it that a great fire in 1731 consumed everything but a painting of the Virgin Mary, leading many to believe in its miraculous powers. Today, visitors and locals alike come to light candles and offer prayers at this peaceful spot.

7. Explore the Lower Town

Dubbed as Zagreb’s crown jewel, Zrinjevac Park is to Zagreb as Central Park is to New York City, and is a must-see when staying in Zagreb. This romantic green space is lined with trees, flowerbeds, and even some of the best hotels in Zagreb.

Zrinjevac Park

Just one block away from Zrinjevac Park is King Tomislav Square, a spacious square dedicated to Croatia’s first king. It is also the location of Zagreb’s famous ice skating rink that appears during Advent every December.

No visit to the Lower Town would be complete without admiring the National Theater. This radiant yellow edifice, ornately designed, is undoubtedly one of Zagreb’s architectural masterpieces. Beyond its striking exterior, the theater is a hub for the performing arts, hosting numerous ballets, operas, and dramas.

The National Theater

If you visit Zareb in the spring, the National Theater will be illuminated in a beautiful light display during the annual Festival of Lights, and is totally worth seeing in person!

8. Walk Through Grič Tunnel

Discover Zagreb’s mysterious network of underground tunnels. Originally constructed in 1943 as a shelter for civilians from the bombings that took place during World War II, the Grič Tunnel has since been transformed into a unique tourist attraction.

The pedestrian tunnel connects Mesnička and Radićeva Streets and is free to explore. Throughout the year, the Grič Tunnel hosts a myriad of exhibitions and events, but it truly comes alive during the festive season. As Christmas approaches, the tunnel is adorned with enchanting lights and art installations, offering a magical experience for all who wander its path.

9. Tkalčićeva Street

Situated just above the main square, Tkalčićeva Street is a pedestrian-friendly gem that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll. Lining the cobbled pathway is a seemingly endless array of bars, cafes, and restaurants, each beckoning with its own unique atmosphere. This street could easily be considered the thumping heart of Zagreb.

What truly sets Tkalčićeva apart is its distinction as Zagreb’s primary hub of international dining. Craving the rich flavors of an authentic Indian curry? Or perhaps the exotic aroma of Sri Lankan cuisine? Maybe even the aromatic spices of Lebanese dishes? All the international dishes you can imagine can be found right here on Tkalčićeva Street.

Of course, if you’ve come for Croatian food, there are a few places worth sitting down at including Pivnica Mali Medo or Batak Grill.

All in all, Tkalčićeva is a popular meetup spot for both tourists and locals, perfect for catching up with friends or making new ones.

10. Visit Mirogoj Cemetery

Taking a leisurely stroll through a cemetery might not be your typical tourist activity, but trust me, this one is a hidden gem that’s totally worth exploring. The atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and pleasant.

Like Père-Lachaise in Paris, the Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb is where the famous rest. Here, you’ll come across the final resting places of notable figures from Croatian history, like the first president of the Croatian Republic, Franjo Tuđman.

Located at the very north of the city on the heights, the cemetery is surrounded by a protective wall, and its entrance is marked by an impressive monument covered in climbing plants.

Once inside, the alleys are lined with flourishing ivy, and many graves are adorned with sumptuous bronze mausoleums and colonnades. It is an unexpectedly charming place, and photographers often flock here at sunset for picturesque shots.

Unusually for a cemetery, all religious denominations are represented here, making it quite distinctive in that regard.

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So, there you have them, the 10 best things to do in Zagreb for free. But wait before leaving! 

I’ve gathered below a few travel tips to help you plan your Zagreb trip at best. 

Where to Stay in Zagreb on a Budget 

If you’re on the hunt for budget-friendly yet delightful accommodations in Zagreb, look no further. Here are a couple of recommendations that are sure to catch your interest:

• ✅ Best Budget Hotel – Old Town Tale: these 3-star apartments are located in Upper Town close to the Cathedral and have all the equipment you could need, with a city view and beautiful decoration for an affordable price. 
• $$ Best Mid-range Budget Hotel – KAPTOL Rooms: just steps away from Dolac Market, this place provides spotlessly clean and bright rooms with nice amenities. It also has an onsite restaurant, which is really convenient.
  
• $ Best Low-range Budget Hotel – Main Square Hostel: located in center Zagreb close to Ban Jelačić Square, this hostel’s dormitories are nicely equipped with comfy beds and air conditioning for a ridiculous price. And to top it off, breakfast is included as a delightful bonus!

Compare accommodation prices in Zagreb on Booking.com

Zagreb Art Pavillion

FAQ About Visiting Zagreb 

Is Zagreb a cheap city? 

Zagreb offers a reasonable cost of living. While it ranks among the pricier cities in Croatia, there is an abundance of affordable dining options, free tours, and budget-friendly lodgings available.

Here is a glimpse into the expenses for a tourist in Zagreb:

• Meal at a budget restaurant: HRK 75,4 (10 EUR)
• Single transport fare (tram & bus): HRK 3,99 (0.53 EUR)
• Admission tickets to attractions: HRK 49,7 – 97,9 (6.60 – 13 EUR)

How to save money when visiting Zagreb? 

Here are a few money-saving tips below to avoid breaking the bank: 

• Visit off-season: choose to travel to Zagreb off-season, when the flights and accommodations are way less expensive. The low season in Zagreb starts from November to March. 
• Keep track of airfares: plan your trip in advance and set an alert on Skyscanner. This will ensure you’re notified when the prices drop to their lowest. By doing so, you will be able to benefit from discounts you can’t even imagine!
• Embrace walking: Zagreb is a small city that is very easy to visit on foot. The distances between attractions are generally short, usually no more than a 30-minute walk.
• Bring a reusable bottle: in Zagreb, tap water is safely drinkable. So save money and reduce plastic waste by carrying a reusable water bottle with you like this one.
• Cook for yourself: if you have access to a kitchen during your stay and you’re planning to be there for more than 2 days, opting to buy groceries and cook your own meals is the best thing to do to save money as it is cheap.
• Consider purchasing a Zagreb card: depending on your plans and length of stay, the Zagreb card could be a worthwhile investment. It offers unlimited access to the city’s public transport and free entrance to several attractions. The card is available for 24 hours (20 EUR) or 72 hours (26 EUR) and can be purchased online.
• Take a hop-on hop-off bus: if you have very limited time in Zagreb, this is by far the most cost-effective option to visit Zagreb. Book here.

Final Thoughts on Free Things to Do in Zagreb

Zagreb is living proof that the most fun and exciting experiences don’t always come with a hefty price tag. The capital city is overflowing with stories whispered through its ancient walls, history echoing in its cobbled streets, and a vibrant culture filling its parks and local markets.

Whether you choose to spend your days exploring the city’s incredible green spaces, soaking up the impressive history of the Upper Town, or mingling with the locals at the Dolac Market, Zagreb has plenty of free activities to keep you entertained. With this list of Zagreb free things to do, you’ll truly be able to immerse yourself in the spirit of Croatia’s capital without spending a dime.

🔎 Read more about Croatia: 

• Discover Plitvice Lakes 
• Best Things to See in Krka National Park