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Zagreb Expert

Zagreb – An Introduction

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Croatia’s stunning capital combines the gritty urban culture of Northern Europe with the laidback manners of the Mediterranean South. Known for its beautiful eye-catching architecture – its upper town’s red roofed buildings, cobblestone streets, church spires and lower town’s neo-baroque and art deco buildings fascinate – Zagreb is arty, creative, home to some quirky bold museums, a thriving scene of alternative music, eccentric bars, varied nightlife, edgy fashions, colourful pop-up markets and a strong café culture besides being a green city close to nature.

It is Croatia’s principal and largest city and the cultural, economic, political and administrative centre of the country. The city has a rich heritage and exploring it a strollers delight however this compact city also has an extensive public transport network and train connections which makes commuting around and beyond the city a seamless experience. Zagreb deserves to be unravelled and enjoyed as the city eventually grows on a visitor like a fine Croatian wine.

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Its Geographical Location:
Zagreb city is located south of ‘Medvednica mountain’ in the north-western part of Croatia at the ‘Sava River’. The city’s favourable geographic position makes it an excellent hub for traffic between Central Europe, the Adriatic Sea and the Balkans.

Zagreb – An Introduction (Contd.)

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Its Climate:
Zagreb has a continental climate with four separate seasons. Summers are dry and winters are cold. Snowfall is common in winter from December to March and rain and fog are common in autumn from October to November.

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Best Time to Visit Zagreb:
The city attracts visitors round the year however the best period to visit Zagreb Is from May to September. The busiest months are peak summer months June and July and flights to Zagreb and hotels in the city come at a premium at this time though one can save costs by purchasing these travel components well in advance.

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Its Demographics:
Zagreb is a city of over 1.2 million people majority of which are Croats while Serbs, Bosniacs, Slovenes and Albanians are minority ethnic groups that constitute the population.

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Traveller Essentials

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Arriving to and departing from Zagreb:
Zagreb Franjo Tudman International Airport is situated 15 kms. south of Central Zagreb outside the city in ‘Pleaso suburb in Velika Gorica’. Named after the first president of Croatia is the largest and busiest airport in the country. It is the hub for national carrier Croatia Airlines, the Irish low-cost airline Ryan Air and Trade Air, the Croatian passenger and cargo charter airline. The airport has one Passenger Terminal currently and the new terminal building became operational in 2017 is spread over four floors and has the capacity to handle five million passengers per annum currently. It has 30 check-in desks, 23 passport control booths, 9 security checkpoints, 8 air bridges and three baggage carousels. Passenger conveniences include a large duty-free shopping area, free wi-fi, cafes, bars, snack counters, restaurants, 3 airport lounges, currency exchange, ATM’s, wheel chair accessibility, baby care facility, baggage trolleys, children’s play area and parking spaces long and short term.

Traveller Essentials (Contd.)

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Getting around Zagreb

Public Transport:
i. Airport shuttle Bus: ‘Pleso prijevoz’ airport shuttles have scheduled service between the airport and Zagreb Central Bus Station. The airport shuttle bus service has a departure frequency every 30 minutes.

ii. City bus: has 130 daytime and 4 lines that operate in the night and for keeping the environment clean they run entirely on biofuel. Out of the 134 bus lines 78 are urban and 56 lines suburban. Bus tickets can be purchased from authorized ZET kiosks/vendors or the bus driver. It is necessary to stamp the ticket in a yellow box as one boards the bus, as upon ticket checks if it is found out that a ticket has not been stamped, the passenger is liable to be fined by ticket checkers.

iii. Trams: first commenced operations in 1891 and today Zagreb features an extensive tram network featuring 15 day and 4 lines that operate in night running over 117 kms. of tracks through 255 stations. The tram network covers much of the inner city and some tram lines extend to the suburbs also.

iv. Commuter Rail: the Zagreb suburban railway is a mass transit service that covers the eastern and western parts of the city with 19 stations and is operated by Croatian railways.

v. Taxis: can be availed from the taxi stand at Zagreb airport located at the arrival terminal. Private taxi transfers can also be booked online pre-arrival or on arrival at the airport through ‘airport-Zagreb taxi, connecto, city-airport taxis, radio-taksi’. The private transfers can be availed from small to premium vehicles. In the city to avail taxi services – can be booked online, can be hailed at hotels, train and bus stations at blue-marked taxi stations. Uber can be booked through the mobile app upon arrival at Zagreb airport and within the city.

vi. Limousines: Chauffeur driven high end vehicles and limos can be pre-booked online with ‘Votum Agram Limuzine, blacklane, limuzine.hr and limos4’ or through the tour operator for airport pick-up and drop-offs and for half and full day hire or for longer durations as well.

vii. Self-Drive Car Rentals: can be pre-booked online or on arrival at Zagreb airport or while staying in the city. Visitors should be 21 years of age, will need to show passport, national ID, a valid international driving (should be at least a year old) license and a credit card which is in their name and for visitors who have pre-booked online they will need to provide a proof of the booking as in voucher or confirmation number at the car rental counter. The car rentals include compulsory fire and 3rd party liability insurance while collision damage waiver (CDW) and theft coverage cost extra but it is recommended to take it. At pick-up of car, the rental company will ask for pre-authorization on visitor’s credit card. This deposit is refundable back to the credit card after deducting the rental price and if no damage has occurred to the vehicle upon return of the rented vehicle. Visitors must also ensure that the fuel tank is filled up before returning the vehicle. Self- drive car rentals can be booked through prominent companies like Sixt rent a car, Auto Europe, Europcar, Nova rent a car and with other local companies.

Traveller Essentials (Contd.)

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Croatia Country Code:
+385 is the prefix before dialling the contact number in Croatia from anywhere in the world.

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Languages:
Official: Croatian, Spoken: German, Italian and English.

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Currency:
Croatian Kuna (HRK)

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Connectivity Solutions:
visitors can buy SIM Cards and wi-fi fixed bundles of T-Hrvalski Telekom (T-HT), A1-Croatia and Tele 2.

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Electricity, Voltage and Power-Plug:
230V/50HZ (Types Cand F Plugs)

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Time Zone – UTC+2

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Zagreb – Through the Lens of History

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The location of Zagreb has been vital to its history putting it at the heart of ancient traffic routes between Adriatic Sea and Central Europe. In the 1st century B.C. the Romans after the conquests of the area had established a strategic port settlement known as ‘Andautonia’ on the southern bank of River Sava in what is today the village of ‘Scitarjevo’ located southeast of the city of Zagreb. The city gained prominence in the Middle Ages by the end of 11th century when King Ladislaus established a diocese on ‘Kaptol hill’ next to Sava River. The Zagreb city grew out of two medieval communities ‘Kaptol to the east and Gradec to the west’ each sited on a hill and divided by a river. Today the early history of Zagreb remains in place as ‘Gradec’ is now the upper town, one of Croatia’s finest city centres and it was in 1851 that the two towns were integrated.

Important Dates in History of Zagreb

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1557
Croation parliament convened in ‘Gradec’.

1632
Historic St. Catherine Church completed.

1771
First Croatian newspaper ‘Ephemerides Zagrabienses’ began publication.

1794
‘Maksimir’ the oldest park in Zagreb and today a tourist attraction was opened to public.

1797
‘Amadeo’s theatre’ was founded.

1827
‘Musikverein – Croatian Music Institute’, the oldest music institution in Croatia was founded.

1850
Telegraph service was introduced.

1860
The Croatian National Theatre – a theatre, opera and ballet house established.

1862
Railway began operating.

1876
‘Mirogoj’ cemetery today a popular tourist attraction was established.

1880
Museum of Arts and Crafts was founded.

1887
Public telephone network established.

1891
a) The first Zagreb tramway, a horsecar began operating.
b) Zagreb Botanical Garden was opened to public.

1893
Zagreb Funicular began operations. Its 66 metres track makes it one of the shortest public transport Funicular in the world.

1901
First taxi service in Zagreb was established.

1905
National Gallery of Croatian Art established.

1907
Zagreb City Museum established.

1919
The Ethnographic Museum was founded.

1925
a. Zagreb zoo opened.
b. The historic and luxurious ‘Regent Esplanade Hotel’ was built to accommodate the guests of the famous luxury train Orient Express which travelled between Paris and Istanbul.

1939
The Zagreb Archaeological Museum was established.

1952
The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art was founded.

1954
a. The Nikola Tesla Technical Museum was founded.
b. The Museum of Contemporary Art was founded.

1961
Music Biennale Zagreb was first organized, is an international festival of contemporary music organized by the Croatian Composers Society and is considered today one of the most important festivals of contemporary music in Europe.

1962
The Zagreb Airport began operations.

1972
‘Animafest Zagreb’ was first held. It is the World Festival of Animated Films held annually and is the second oldest animation festival in the world.

1995
Zagreb crisis began followed by rocket attacks by Serbian forces.

2003
Zagreb Film Festival was first organized and is now an annual event.

2005
INmusic festival was first held. It is Croatia’s biggest international contemporary open-air music festival.

2009
The Museum of Contemporary Art opened.

2010
The Museum of Broken Relationships opened.

Know Zagreb Better

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a. The flag and emblem of Zagreb shows a white walled town with three towers and the golden gates wide open. This symbolizes that that the city welcomes the visitors.

b. The Zagreb city centre has free wi-fi along with many other streets, hotels and cafes throughout the city, so a visitor to this city will never be lost.

c. Zagreb is perhaps one of the few remaining European cities to have 200 traditional gas lampposts in ‘upper town’ still working which are lit up by expert lighters called ‘Mazigaci’ every night and extinguished every morning. This tradition goes back to 1853.

d. The historic and famous hotel Esplanade was constructed for accommodating the passengers of the luxury train Orient Express opened in Zagreb in 1925 was marketed with tagline ‘where the Balkans end and civilization begins’. The building is a beautiful example of ‘Art Noveau’ architecture.

e. Since 1877, Zagreb’s ‘Grici cannon’ has been fired every day at 12 PM to mark noon time. The first cannon was from English Admiral Nelson’s ship however the cannon which is used today was gifted in 1987 by the Yugoslavian army. Today this tourist attraction can be seen at the 13th century ‘Lotrscak Tower’.

f. The Zagreb Funicular has the shortest time for a public transport vehicle in the world. The ride from ‘Tomiceva street to the Strossmayer Promenade’ takes about 60 seconds dropping visitors in front of the ‘Lotrscak Tower’ and vice versa.

g. Zagreb has a famous place of gathering under the clock on ’ban Jelacic square’. All of the town’s clocks are looked after by the ‘family Lebarovic’ who have been maintaining them for past six generations.

h. The star of the Zagreb confectionery scene is the ‘Licitar’ – a traditional handmade biscuit of varying sizes, take about a month to make are shaped like a heart and glazed in red. This delicious sweet is supposed to symbolize love and affection and a popular souvenir of Croatia that visitors love to savour.

I. The Zagreb Cathedral on Kapitol built in Gothic style is the tallest building in Croatia.

j. Ilica is the longest street of Zagreb city.

k. Zagreb has a secret tunnel network under the city as they were built by rulers over time to protect people and transport goods in periods of crisis.

l. ‘Jagerhorn’ on Ilica 14 just beneath ‘Gradec’ is the oldest hotel in Zagreb which opened in 1827.

m. The popular animated series ‘Professor Baltazar’ produced by Zagreb School of animated films has been shown in 30 countries.

n. The centre of the city considered to be the historic district of Zagreb is the ‘upper town and lower town’ which has an exceptional diversity of architecture from baroque to modern.

o. The ‘Lenuci Horseshoe or green horseshoe’ is a u-shaped system of 8 squares with parks in downtown Zagreb were created in late 19th and early 20th centuries which gave Zagreb the attribute of a modern city.

p. Zagreb nicknamed the city of Museums is home to some great museums and a unique museum is ‘Museum of Broken Relationships’ and one of the hottest attractions of Zagreb.

q. Visitors who live to eat and love to try new cuisines can savour fine Croatian cuisine dishes in the colourful ‘Dolac market’ affectionately called ‘the Belly of Zagreb’.

r. Zagreb’s public transport system is recognized as one of the safest in the world with no fatalities in last 100 years.

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Explore, Admire and Enjoy

Voted as one of Europe’s best go to destinations - Zagreb from its medieval upper town to its lively lower town abounds with treasures that are sure to captivate visitors. Here TBO Academy takes you on a journey to explore the top attractions of the vibrant and beautiful capital of Croatia.

Zagreb Cathedral

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01. Zagreb Cathedral:

Also known as ‘Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ is the icon and symbol of Zagreb. It is dedicated to ‘Assumption of Mary and to kings Saint Stephen and Saint Ladislaus. The cathedral was constructed and completed in 1217 however it was destroyed in Mongol invasion of 1242 but rebuilt a few years later by ‘bishop Timotej’. Later in 1880 due to earthquake the cathedral was severely damaged and the restoration work was done by the Austro-Hungarian architect ‘Hermann Bolle’ in Neo-Gothic style bringing the Cathedral to its present form as we see it today.

Highlight of Zagreb Cathedral:

- The Zagreb Cathedral is considered the tallest building not only in Zagreb but in entire Croatia. Its stunning façade with twin spires (354 ft. high) dominate the skyline of the capital.

- The interior of the cathedral has exquisite marble altars, statues, pulpit, series of frescoes dating to 13th century and the tomb of ‘Cardinal Alojzije Stepinac’.

- The Zagreb Cathedral organ is classified amongst the top ten finest organs in the world. It has more than 600 flue pipes, 78 registers and 4 manuals and the organ is registered at the Ministry of Republic of Croatia as a protected cultural good. In summers an organ festival is organized from July to mid-September.

- The beautiful chandeliers hanging at the centre of the cathedral are said to be a donation from a Las Vegas casino.

- Zagreb Cathedral treasury (can only be visited by prior permission and appointment) houses priceless items dating from 11th to 19th centuries like ‘Plenarium made out of ivory, baroque reliquary bust of King Saint Stephen, Cloak of Saint Ladislaus, Bishop Petretic’s workshop church’s attire, relic of Saint Leopold Maldic, the gift of Pope Ivan Pavle II.

- The cathedral is depicted in the Croatian 1000 kuna bank notes issued in 1993.

- The cathedral was visited by Pope Benedict XVI in 2011 on its 900th anniversary where he celebrated Sunday vespers.

St. Mark’s Church

02. St. Mark’s Church:

This church dating back to 13th century is one of the oldest architectural monument and most recognizable landmark of Zagreb city. Originally constructed as a Romanesque edifice, in the second half of 14th century it was reconstructed in Gothic style.

Highlights of St. Mark’s Church:

- Its signature colourful tiled roof constructed in 1880 by architects Friedrich Schmidt and Hermann Bolle gives a distinctive look to the gothic façade of the church making it a Zagreb icon. Visitors can see the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia and Slavonia on the left side and the emblem of Zagreb on the right.

- The south portal consists of 15 sculptures out of which 4 are wooden baroque sculptures and 11 stone gothic sculptures. On top are the statues of Joseph and Mary with infant Jesus and below it visitors can view St. Mark and the lion and the twelve apostles. Due to its artistic composition and sculptures, this portal is considered the most valuable gothic portal in South-Central Europe.

- Outside the church on its north-west wall lies the oldest coat of arms of Zagreb dating back to 1499.

- Inside the church massive round columns support heavy ribbed vaults cut in stone and visitors can view sculptures by Ivan Mestrovic, renovated frescoes and ceiling gilded with 22K gold leaflets.

- From late April to October the colourful Zagreb guard changing ceremony takes place on Saturdays and Sundays at noon.

*Visitors can visit inside the church during daily mass only. Mass timings can be obtained from the service provider.

Lotrscak Tower and Gric Cannon

03. Lotrscak Tower and Gric Cannon:

Was built in 1266 to guard the southern gate of the ‘Gradec’ town wall, is a fortified tower and was part of the city’s defence system is located in ‘Upper town’. In the 19th century a fourth floor and windows were added to the tower and a cannon was placed at the top known as ‘Gric cannon’.

Highlights of Lotrscak Tower and Gric Cannon:

- Latrscok tower is one of the last remaining fortifications and one of city’s oldest monuments.

- Visitors who can climb the stairs to the top will be rewarded with panoramic views of the city.

- The tower also houses a photo exhibition and an art shop.

- Since 1877 every day at 12 noon the ‘Gric cannon’ fires a shot as commemoration of Zagreb’s victory over the Turks. The firing of the shot gave the sign for exact noon time for ringers of bell’s churches.

Zagreb City Museum

04. Zagreb City Museum:

Established more than 100 years ago in 1907 is housed in a historical monument dating to mid-17th century – the former convent of ‘Saint Claires’. The museum traces the cultural, artistic, economic and political evolution of Zagreb through artefacts from prehistory to Roman finds to the modern period.

Highlights of Zagreb City Museum:

- The museum has 75000 items arranged systematically in themed sections.

- The displays include archaeological finds unearthed during the building’s restoration, old city plans, maps, flags, military uniforms, coats of arms, lithographs, documents, altars and stone masonry.

- Besides the permanent display, the museum also hosts cultural exhibitions and live historical performances.

Croatian State Archives

05. Croatian State Archives

Established in 1913 to house the royal library and land archives is located in Zagreb’s most majestic Art Nouveau building which is a wonderful combination of Viennese secessionism and modern European architecture.

Highlights of Croatian State Archives:

- Visitors will find it a treasure trove of history with some documents dating back to 10th century and it holds medieval charters, military records, Glagolitic writings collection, collection of maps, Croatian literary heritage, graphics of Croation cities, costumes, photographs, artworks and much more.

- Visitors will admire the beauty of the building exteriors and the sculptures of massive owls on the roof which symbolizes knowledge and education. Inside the building the atrium has chequered marble flooring and wall panels are of pink marble.

- Visitors should check out small and large rooms both in the archives however ‘The Great Reading Room’ stands out with chandeliers, stained glass ceiling, bronze reliefs and spectacular mural.

- Besides the permanent exhibition they also hold thematic exhibitions and once a month every Thursday they show a film stored in the archives.

Mirogoj Cemetery

06. Mirogoj Cemetery

Welcome to one of Zagreb’s most scenic landmarks, situated on the slopes of the ‘Medvednica mountain’ it is a gothic wonderland adorned with impressive domes, arcades, cupolas and elaborately sculpted tombstones all within a carefully manicured park. ‘Mirogoj’ is Croatia’s most majestic cemetery and is listed as one of the most significant cemeteries in Europe. Designed by renowned architect Hermann Bolle it was inaugurated in 1876 however work and new additions to the cemetery continued till 1929.

Highlights of Mirogoj Cemetery:

- The land on which ‘Mirogoj cemetery’ stands belonged to famous linguist Doctor Ljudevit Graj after whose death in 1872 the property was acquired by ‘City of Zagreb’ who wanted to build a cemetery to accommodate the rising needs of an expanding city’s population. The cemetery has over 300’000 graves.

- The cemetery with its imposing arcade topped by a string of cupolas looks like a fortress from outside while inside walking through its tree lined lanes visitors can admire the beautiful domes, arcades, pavilions, tombs and sculptures from famous artistes like ‘Ivan Mestrovic, Ivan Rendic, Edo Murtic and many others. It makes one feel like they are in an open art gallery.

- On ‘All Souls-day observed on 2nd November’ every year, visitors can witness a moving spectacle where thousands of candles are lit and wreathes of flowers placed on tombs to commemorate the dead.

- Unusual for the times, the cemetery was open to all religions and visitors will find graves of Catholic Protestant and Orthodox Christians, Muslims, Jewish, Later day saints and irreligious graves as well.

- Visitors can view the famous memorials like monument to fallen Croatian soldiers in WWI, monument to Yugoslav national hero, Wall of Pain – monument to victims of Croatian war of independence and notable interments of famous personalities like Croatian basketball legend ‘Drazen Petrovic, Milika Planinc the first and only female prime minister of Yugoslavia, Vladimir Prelog, Nobel prize winning chemist, Franjo Tudman, the first president of Croatia and many more famous personalities.

Croatian Natural History Museum

07. Croatian Natural History Museum:

Established in 1846 and currently housed in ‘Amadeo Palace – formerly a theatre’. It is one of the oldest museums of Croatia with over 2 million artefacts including over 1.1 million animal specimens. Since the year 2000 ‘Amadeo’s Theatre’ was revived as a yearly summer series of theatrical pays entitled ‘Scena Amadeo’ held in the museum’s atrium.

Highlights of Natural History Museum:

- The museum is divided into specialized departments – mineralogical, geological, palaeontological, botanical and zoological departments, each with their own collection collected from all over Croatia and besides these it has Conservator’s Restoration department as well as Education and Public Services department.

- Some of the prominent exhibits are ‘the Rock Map of Croatia – a mosaic map assembled from various rock pieces found in the country, The Geological Pole, collection of Pre-historic Tools, Bones excavated from Krapina cave inhabited by Neanderthals, exhibits of Evolution of Animal and Plant life in Croatia, Lion’s Pit – exhibits the remains of a cave lion, reconstruction of Megalodon – an extinct giant shark species, amazing insect collection, the first moss animal exhibition in the world and much more.

- The museum is home to a large scientific library and holds books published in 17th century and is open to public.

- The museum publishes a journal ‘Natura Croatica’ – a peer reviewed biological and geological academic journal.

- The exhibitions are accessible to visually impaired.

*Due to 2020 earthquake the museum suffered damage and currently restoration work is on. Visitors would need to contact service provider for its opening date.

Archaeological Museum Zagreb

08. Archaeological Museum Zagreb:

Established in 1836, spread over 3 floors and housing almost half a million artefacts it is one of the oldest museums in Zagreb city. The museum consists of 5 main sections – The Prehistoric Collection, The Egyptian Collection, Classic Greek and Roman Collection, The Medieval Collection and The Coins and Medals Collection.

Highlights of Archaeological Museum:

- The 3^rd floor houses 78000 objects from Bronze and Iron age and the Museum’s Egyptology collection. Stand-out exhibits include the famous ‘Zagreb Mummy, Liber Linteus – 3^rd century BC mummy and bandages with the longest Etruscan inscription in existence and a delicately beautiful Ptolemaic Funeral Mask.

- The 2^nd floor displays Roman and Greek collection like ‘marble statuary, military equipment, metal objects, Roman minor arts such as oil lamps, decorated combs, metal curse tablets and the Greek collection contains vases and stones with inscriptions.

- The numismatics section on the ground floor showcases a collection of 260’000 coins and medallions, one of the largest in Europe.

Nikola Tesla Technical Museum

09. Nikola Tesla Technical Museum:

Established in 1954 to promote science and technology and named after the pioneering inventor and Edison protégé ‘Nikola Tesla’ the museum displays a entertaining potpourri of objects tracing the development and application of technological advances in the last century. Along with the permanent displays it also features a Planetarium, the Mine, the Beehive and Nikola Tesla study. The museum will appeal to adults and children alike.

Highlights of Technical Museum:

- The museum maintains the oldest preserved steam engine in the area dating to mid-19th century which is still operational.

- 20^th century airplanes, military vehicles, Dubrovnik tram car, agriculture exhibits with live apiary, firefighting vehicles and equipment, Planetarium exhibiting spacecraft, rocket carriers, orbit stations, a 350-metre model mine displaying methods used to prospect for ore and minerals and a demonstration cabinet of Nikola Tesla.

- The mine and planetarium are open only for guided tours.

Museum of Contemporary Art

10. Museum of Contemporary Art:

is the biggest and most modern museum of Croatia and Is a must-see for contemporary art lovers while in Zagreb. It traces its origins from the city gallery of contemporary art which opened in 1954. The museum from 2009 is housed in what is considered a city icon built by famed local architect ‘Igor Franic’. The museum besides its permanent exhibition also hosts temporary exhibitions and has a multi-media centre and a library.

Highlights of Museum of Contemporary Art:

- The museum has a total of 12000 art objects of which over 600 are permanent exhibits.

- Museum offers wonderful, thought provoking collection of artworks including paintings, sculptures, art on paper, photographs, media art and films and videos. Prominent works include ‘Women’s house dealing with theme of violence against women by famous Croatian artist Sanja Ivekovic, Collection in motion showcasing works of Croatian and International artists, The Test Site metal sculpture by Belgian artist Carsten Holler at the entrance hall and installations by Braco Dimitrijevic and Miroslaw Balka’ adorn the south side entrance.

- Carsten Holler’s ‘Double Slide’ was custom-made for the museum and visitors can ride the slide directly to the parking lot – a fun and memorable way to end the tour of the museum (subject to weather conditions).

- The museum has a packed schedule of events where visitors can enjoy theatre, films and concerts.

Museum of Broken Relationships

11. Museum of Broken Relationships:

Yes, you read it correctly, opened in 2010, this privately owned museum is located under the barrel-vaulted ceilings of a former 18th century palace in the upper town of the city offering an enlightening journey through human emotions and over the years has evolved as one of Zagreb’s most compelling attractions.

The museum is the brainchild of artist sculptor Drazen Grubisic and film producer Olinka Vistica, a former couple for whom their love failed to last and their reluctance to part with the sentimental reminders of their fizzled love inspired them to open this museum, so that the items could remain together. The project came to life as an art installation for the Croatian Artists Union annual salon in 2006 when the museum’s founders requested friends to donate objects that symbolized relationships gone wrong and artistically housed them in a cargo container parked in the yard outside the salon’s main exhibition space adding to the sense of intrigue, received an overwhelming response from Croatian public and its fame travelled overseas. Invitations from foreign galleries soon followed and the museum became a travelling exhibition visiting places as diverse as Mexico, Taiwan, USA, Turkey, Argentina, Bosnia, Macedonia, Singapore, Philippines, Germany, Slovenia, United Kingdom and South Africa.

Highlights of Museum of Broken Relationships:

- The museum’s neatly arranged collection with donations from all around the globe are displayed amid a string of all white rooms each devoted to an emotional theme like ‘Coming of age, Chips are down, A Labour of love, The game is up, In and out of wedlock, Happily ever after, Tomorrow is another day and more.

- The museum is mind bogglingly diverse in its exploration of love’s messy aftermath ranging from darkly comic to the patently tragic and in turns funny, poignant and moving. The museum features love tokens from around the world and the items on display represent a fraction of museum’s holdings and the collection is periodically refreshed with donated objects from museum’s touring exhibitions which continue roving the world.

- In 2011 the museum received the Kenneth Hudson award from European Museum Forum for being the most innovative European museum.

Mimara Museum

12. Mimara Museum:

Opened in 1987 is housed in an imposing former neo-Renaissance school has the private collection of ‘Ante Topic Mimara’ who donated over 3000 priceless objects of art to his native Zagreb.

Highlights of Mimara Museum:

- The art objects span an amazing three millennia of history encompassing art of different cultures and civilizations which includes ‘Old Civilization collection, European Sculpture collection, Ivory collection, Ceramics and Porcelain collection, The Far Eastern collections, Icon collection, Textiles and Carpets collection, The Glass collection, The Furniture collection and more.

- Art lovers will delight in viewing the vast paintings collection of renowned Dutch, Flemish, Italian, Spanish, German, French and English painters.

Museum of Torture

13. Museum of Torture:

This quirky museum will delight the horror buffs as the museum offers an insight into its unique collection of various instruments of torture and execution.

Highlights of Museum of Torture:

- Visitors will find the museum atmosphere and objects immersive and will be allowed to see, touch and try the exhibits.

- The museum has 70 full scale historic instruments of torture like a full-scale replica of 1792 guillotine, Iron Maiden – considered the most brutal instrument of torture, Rack – one of the oldest instruments of torture, Pendulum – a swinging blade that descends lower and lower with each sweep, Scold’s Bridle – an instrument used to punish women accused of scolding and gossiping.

- The museum’s multi-sensory rooms such as the pitch-dark Dungeon and semi-dark Cabinet of Wonders with a discomforting sound environment is where visitors will get a perspective the fear of the torture and the unknown future that the torture victims felt.

- The specially designed multi-media guides with original audio and video content gives visitors insights about the history of each exhibited instrument of torture.

Chocolate Museum of Zagreb

14. Chocolate Museum of Zagreb:

this attraction is a must visit for visitors who are passionate about eating and knowing more about the history of one of the most favourite tastes and flavours on earth – Chocolate.

Highlights of Chocolate Museum:

- This first Croatian museum theme park dedicated to chocolate is the brainchild of chocolate connoisseurs ‘Ruzica and Domagoj Cerovac’ and its creatively designed beautiful interiors have been done by ‘Zelijka Zrnic’.

- The museum has 6 historic zones having its own unique scenery, musical background, historical artifacts, interactive educational spots and chocolate savouring stations.

- follow the path of creation of chocolate from cocoa beans by Aztecs to Olmecs, Mayans and Spanish conquistadors who brought chocolate to the royal courts of Europe all the way to the modern Belgian, Swiss, Dutch and English chocolatiers who make chocolates we eat today.

- Visitors instead of a regular entrance ticket will be provided with a chocolate tasting box. There is also a special area ‘laboratory’ where visitors can learn about the production, process, smell and touch the ingredients with demos showing praline creation offering an engaging, immersive journey into the world of chocolate. Visitors can also buy chocolates of Croatian chocolatiers from the museum’s chic gift shop.

Museum of Hangovers

15. Museum of Hangovers:

A group of university students in Zagreb were out enjoying drinks with friends and sharing funny hangover stories when ‘Rino Dubokovic’, part of that group and the co-founder of the museum had his eureka moment of an idea ‘to set up a museum with a collection of objects that people find themselves with after a night of not being sober and their stories that will illustrate in a funny way the evenings of drunkenness and the hangover the next day. Six months later in 2019, the Museum of Hangovers opened in the building next to where the drunken night had taken place.

Highlights of Museum of Hangovers:

- The museum recreates a drunken journey home from the bar where along the way are stories of drunken escapades from round the world with rooms mimicking a graffiti lined street, mazes of storefronts, a park and finally a bedroom where the visitor can piece their journey together.

- Guests begin their visit by wearing goggles that simulate drunkenness and are invited to throw a dart where hitting a bullseye means free admission to the museum.

- The museum’s gift shop features alcohol themed merchandize like ‘drinkopoly, drinking dice, rulet game, keychain beer bottle, flask bracelet and wearables which will be of interest to visitors.

Zagreb 80s Museum

16. Zagreb 80s Museum:

Is located on ‘Radiceva street’ near stone gate in the heart of the city. The museum reconstructs everyday life in Zagreb of the decade in 1980s in erstwhile Yugoslavia in a unique and interactive way.

Highlights of Zagreb 80s Museum:

- The museum has 500 exhibits exhibited in 6 retro designed rooms. Visitors can experience how an ordinary Zagreb family lived in the era of socialism.

- Each object on display has a story and unique background including items like ‘supermini car Zastava 750 (locally called Fico), Tomos moped(fuel efficient mini-bike), play video games on Atari or Commodore 64, watch black and white TV, play vinyl records, see toys manufactured by ‘Mehanotehnika’, Visitors can touch, hold and feel all the objects inside the museum.

- Visitors can buy some cool retro souvenirs from the gift shop.

Museum of Illusions

17. Museum of Illusions:

Centrally located in ‘Ilica 72’, this popular museum is a must do in any Zagreb itinerary. This fascinating world of illusions was first conceptualized in Zagreb in 2015 and became one of the fastest growing education and entertainment places for all age groups.

Highlights of Museum of Illusions:

- An interactive and immersive experience awaits the visitors with over 70 exhibits. Visitors will experience amusing and awesome tricks about vision, perception, human brain and science so it will be easier to perceive why our eyes see things which our brain cannot comprehend.

- Experience maze of mirrors and get bamboozled as one loses oneself here, the upside-down room where the water runs skyward and an illusory room where it appears as if a head of a human is being served on a plate, children can climb up on to the ceiling and take a picture in the rotated room, visitors can enhance themselves into enormous giants in the Ames room, have fun with mirror of truth. hologram pictures, brain teasers and educational games.

Croatian Museum of Naïve Art

18. Croatian Museum of Naïve Art:

Located in the heart of Zagreb’s upper town is the first museum in the world dedicated to ‘Naïve art – an eclectic art form practised by untrained masters in late 19th and 20th century. The artworks exhibited are paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints housed on the second floor of the 18th century ‘Raffay palace’.

Highlights of Museum of Naïve Art:

- Naïve art artists were people from middle class from villages and countryside that formed the first two major schools namely the ‘Earth group and Hlebine school’ and includes themes like poetic realism to romantic to surreal.

- The museum has more than 1900 works of art of which 80 are on display on rotating basis.

- The artworks are primarily of Croatian artists and some from foreign masters also.

- The museum shop offers a variety of souvenirs and printed editions.

Zagreb Botanical Gardens

19. Zagreb Botanical Gardens:

Is a verdant, lovely retreat in the heart of the city, is a scientific institution of the University of Zagreb devoted to researching and protecting Croatian indigenous plants. Founded by Professor ‘Antun Heinz’ of the university, it was opened to public in 1891.

Highlights of Botanical Gardens:

- Croatia is rich in biodiversity and the botanical garden reflects it through the 10’000 species of plants including 1800 exotic plants.

- The plant collection consists of ‘Native Croatian flora, Mediterranean plants, Mountain and Alpine plants, Herbaceous plants, Carnivorous plants, Cacti, Palms and Aquatic plants.

- The botanical garden has 14 greenhouses housing tropical and subtropical plants, the highlight of the botanical garden ‘the Arboretum’ is laid out as landscaped English garden while the ‘flower parterre’ in the western part of the garden has been laid out in French style and marsh plants can be seen in the artificial lake.

- Famous painter ‘Slava Raskaj’s’ notable works were painted in the backdrop of garden ponds of the botanical garden.

Maksimir Park

20. Maksimir Park:

Is a masterpiece of garden architecture, an oasis of peace in the city of Zagreb was founded in 1787 and opened to the public in the year 1794 is now 227 years old as of the year 2021 making it the oldest and largest public park in South-Eastern Europe and Croatia. It was the initiative of the then Bishop of Zagreb ‘Maksimilijan Vrhovac’, a great nature lover to transform the centuries old dense forest of hornbeams and oaks which involved the felling of the forest interior, the grading of hills, digging of great holes for lakes, the laying of paths and construction of bridges.

Highlights of Maksimir Park:

- Laid out in the style of a romantic English garden it has several big meadows, numerous creeks, five lakes, clearing paths, trails and within the park visitors will also find ‘Bishop Haulik’s New Villa, Echo Pavilion, The Swiss House, Gazebo, St. Juraj Chapel, Obelisk, and numerous sculptures. The northernmost part of the park is a thick primeval forest which in 1964 was declared a monument of landscape architecture and a protected cultural property.

- The Park is home to more than 100 bird species specially hole nesting birds like spotted woodpecker – an endangered European bird species.

- In 1925 a zoo was added to the park (now known as Zagreb Zoo) and is home to over 2000 animals representing 275 species which include Snow Leopards, Scimitar Oryx, Red Panda, Chimpanzee, Pygmy Hippopotamus, Bactrian camel to name a few and visitors can observe and enjoy daily feeding of Sea Lions, Seals, Piranhas and others.

Zagreb 360 Degree

21. Zagreb 360 Degree:

Is the most visited tourist attraction in Zagreb. Located on 16th floor at the top of skyscraper ‘Ilica 1a’ on ‘Ban Jelacic’ square. The observation deck offers spectacular 360 degrees views of Zagreb city and its prominent landmarks. Taking pictures in daylight or at dusk, the results are stunning. Worth a visit.

Dolac Market

22. Dolac Market:

Is located in the heart of Zagreb between the main square of ‘Coutnt Josip Jelacic and Kaptol, the seat of Roman Catholic Archbishop of Zagreb’. Set up by the city authorities in 1930 after an extensive survey of similar markets in other European cities, this over 90 years old market is the best known and most visited farmers market by locals and tourists in Zagreb.

Highlights of Dolac Market:

- At the top of the stairs that lead to ‘Dolac stands the stature of Kumica Barica’. The statue honours and appreciates the women working at this marketplace.

- Covered with beach umbrellas (many of them decorated in the style of ‘Sestine folk costume), is a marketplace full of life and colour. This picturesque market with views of cathedral spires as a backdrop is also referred to fondly by the locals as the ‘belly of Zagreb’. Farmers from the city’s outlying villages, bakers, butchers, fishmongers (fresh fish caught in Adriatic Sea is transported overnight to the market), flower sellers from the city and traders from other parts of Croatia throng to this market to sell their fresh produce and goods daily.

- Visitors can mingle with the locals, soak in the atmosphere, stroll around, explore, bargain and purchase fresh vegetables and fruits, meats, dairy products, savour local delicacies like handmade cornbread, cream-cheese, honey and also buy some wooden toy souvenirs for their loved ones.

Medvedgrad Fortress

23. Medvedgrad Fortress:

Is considered to be one of the most intriguing medieval monuments of the Zagreb region and is one of the largest fortresses in Croatia. Situated on the southwest slope of ‘Medvednica mountain’ it was constructed in 13th century after the ‘Mongol invasion’ with the aim to defend the ‘Kapitol – the seat of Roman Catholic Archbishop’. Medvedgrad fortress abounds with stories of the beautiful wicked black queen, Cruel counts of Celtje, buried secret treasure and other legends where visitors can experience over 800 years of history unfold.

Highlights of Medvedgrad Fortress:

- Has double walls, three gates and towers without doors making it impregnable and interestingly in its entire history it was never attacked.

- The fortress has a viewing platform which offers magnificent views of Zagreb city.

- The ‘Homeland Altar’ under its south tower has an eternal flame honouring Croatia’s soldiers who offered the supreme sacrifice of their lives for their country.

- Medvedgrad fortress hosts music evenings for 2 days every July where visitors can relax and enjoy the music.

- In last week of September every year ‘Medieval days at Medvedgrad festival is held for 2 days where visitors can relive the history and enjoy knightly battle skills, mint their own coin, attend archery workshops, see torture equipment, buy souvenirs and taste food prepared with medieval recipes.

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Souvenirs from Zagreb

5.1
Souvenirs from Zagreb:
Are different, unique and some are as quirky as the city itself. Below we share a list of authentic souvenirs which will make shopping a delightful experience in Zagreb for your esteemed clients.

01. Cravat – Necktie, Croatia is the homeland of handcrafted cravat.

02. Handmade Hats and Bandanas for ladies and gents.

03. Handcrafted Samobor Crystals

04. Original handmade Sestine Umbrellas and Parasols.

05. Artworks of Croatian Naïve artists.

06. Mugs made from walnut wood.

07. Filigree Earrings and Coral Necklaces.

08. Croatian Wines and Rakija – fruit liquor drink.

09. Croatian Lace.

10. Licitar Cakes.

11. Franch – Croatian Coffee.

12. Sibenik’s Button.

13. Glagolitic Alphabet Tablets.

14. Morcic, Croatian good luck charms.

15. Croation fashion -apparel and handbags.

Shopping Malls in Zagreb

5.2
Shopping Malls in Zagreb:

01. Westgate Shopping City:
Is the biggest shopping centre of Croatia is a Mecca for shoppers with over 240 stores, over 20 cafes and restaurants, free inline skating area for children, huge kids play area, bowling centre and over 2000 parking spaces.

02. Centar Kapitol:
is located in close proximity to the famous ‘Ban Jelacic square’. The premium lifestyle and shopping centre has 85 shops offering hi-end fashion, luxury perfumes and goods which include international labels, local brands, cafés, Zagreb’s first Japanese restaurant, bars and five cinema halls.

03. Avenue Mall:
a popular shopping destination in the city has a large variety of stores to satisfy the shopping needs of locals and visitors with stores open to shoppers till 2100 to 2200 hours, restaurants inside the mall are open well past midnight, 2 play areas for kids and has 9 cinema halls.

*Other malls of note are ‘Cvjetni, Arena Centar, City Centre one West, City Centre one East, Garden Mall and Branimir Centar.

Boutique Lifestyle Stores in Zagreb

5.3
Boutique Lifestyle Stores in Zagreb:

a. Love, Ana:
owned and run by designer ‘Ana Tevsic’ sells quirky interior furnishings and accessories and also stocks products of other promising designers.

b. Take Me Home:
a popular store located near the lower station of Zagreb’s funicular sells home décor products and souvenirs done by Croatian designers.

c. Sto Citas:
located in ‘Gunduliceva’ the store sells a range of handmade organic products like soaps, face creams, body lotions made from Adriatic herbs and olive oil, second-hand books, T-Shirts and more.

d. Kobali:
located in ‘Ilica 5’ is over 100 years old, is a Zagreb institution selling classic hats for gents and ladies.

e. A’Marie:
located a few blocks from Zagreb’s main square is famous Croatian designer ‘Ana Marija’s’ little boutique that sells fashionable womenswear, spectacles and sunglasses.

f. Bashota:
almost a century old institution of Zagreb, this store specializes in traditional Zagreb jewellery like earrings, necklaces and brooches.

g. Kras Chocolatier:
located in ‘Ilica 15’ near the main square of Zagreb is the leading Croatian confectionery producer offering cakes, handmade pastries, ice creams and unique cocktails.

Dining in Zagreb

5.4
Dining in Zagreb:
The Zagreb food scene was always based around the Croatian love of big, lavish lunches with the hearty grilled and roasted meat dishes of inland Croatia and seafood of the Mediterranean however over the last few years a new generation of food joints serving European bistro fare, east-west fusion, wok fries using local ingredients and global spices, quality fast food places offering delicious burgers, deli sandwiches and much more coupled with the idea that one can eat well according to one’s budget has become the new buzz phrase of a fast changing capital.

Croatian and Continental Cuisine Restaurants

Croatian and Continental Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Zinfandel’s	Hotel Esplanade, Lower Town
Noel	Ulica popa Dukljanina
Agava	Ulica Ivana Tkalcica
ManO	Medvedgradska Ulica 2
La Struk	Skalinska Ulica 5, Near Zagreb Cathedral
Vinodol	Ulica Nikole Tesle 10
Baltazar	Nova Ves. 4
Okrugljak	Minovi 28
Dubravkin Put	Dubravkin Put 2, 1000
Pod Zidom	Pod Zidom 5
Restaurant Tac	Vrhovec 140
Apetit City	Masarykova 18
Lantern ana Dolcu	Opatovina 31
Tip-Top	Gunduliceva 18
Croatian Food Heritage	Petrinjska 14
Trilogija	Ulica Kaptol 10
Stari Puntijar	Gracanska Cesta 65

(Historical Restaurant serves unique game meat dishes)

Italian Cuisine Restaurants

Italian Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Boban	Gajeva 9
Carpaccio	Ulica Nikole Tesle 14
Paesano	Laniste 26
Il Secondo	Avenija Dubrovnik
Spizza	Ulica Palinovecka 19
Canzona - Trattoria	Ulica Svearova 9
Cheese Bar	Ulica Augusta Cesarca 2
Vagabond	Ulica Vlaska 90

Pan Asian and Asian Fusion Cuisine Restaurants

Pan Asian and Asian Fusion Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Takemoko	Masaykova 22
Tekka	Radnicka 37-B
Umami Grill	Kneza Branimera 29
Royal India	Tkalciceva 26
Cro. K	Pod Zidom 4
Asia Restaurant	Seniona 1
Bota Sare	Zvonimirova 124
Manzoku Sushi	Gajeva 26
Ginger Sushi	Masarykova 21
Bombay Grill	Ulika Ivana Tkalcica 74

Vegan Restaurants – European & International Cuisine Restaurants

Vegan Restaurants – European & International Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Green Point	Varsavska 10
Gajbica	Vlaska 7
Vegehop	Vlaska 79
Barcode Mitra	ZagrebaCka cesta 113
Falafel etc.	Opatovina 16
Elixir – Raw Food Club	Ulica Ribnjak 8

American Cuisine Restaurants

American Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
American Steak and Grill House	Ulica Gajeva 1
Poke Poke (Hawaiian food)	Bagoviceva 4
Pingvin	Nikole Tesle 10
OXBO Urban Bar & Grill	Ulika Vuckovara 269-A

Mexican Cuisine Restaurants

Mexican Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Mex Cantina	Savska Cesta 154
Pani	Maksimirka 66
Taquitos Bandidos	Radiceva 12
Salsa Bistro	Ulika Kostelska 11
Pirate’s Karaka	Ulika Andrije Hebranga

Lebanese & Middle Eastern Cuisine Restaurants

Lebanese & Middle Eastern Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Lazeez	Ulika Zvonimira 59
Delicija Libanesi	Radnicka cesta 48
Lokma from Istanbul	Tkalciceva 59
Byblos Lebanese	Ulika Nikole Tesle 4
Layali Restaurant	Ulika Ivana Tkalciceva 59

Russian Cuisine Restaurants

Russian Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
The Pushkin’s Office	Ulika Josipa Rudera Boskovica 11
Rusko Bistro	Ulika Vlaska 19

Kosher Food Restaurant

Kosher Food Restaurant

Name	Location
Lifestyle	Margaretska Street

Brazilian Cuisine Restaurants

Brazilian Cuisine Restaurants

Name	Location
Rodizio do Brasil	Selska 215
Acai & Salad	Ilica 126

Bars in Zagreb

5.5
Bars in Zagreb
Croatians love for spirits is well known and the country is a major producer of variety of beers, wines and other hard spirits brands which have International takers with exports on upswing but they are also hugely popular with Croats and visitors. TBO Academy is providing below a list of go-to bars in Zagreb.

Bar / Pub	Location
Craft Room	Ulika Opatovina 35
(Local beers on tap & bottled international brands)
Garden Brewery	Slavonska Avenija 22F
(Boutique craft beer bar)
Vinyl	Donji Grad
(Superb range of whisky)
Tesla Power House	Ulika Varsavska 4
(Impressive wine collection & cocktails)
MK Bar	Ulika Radiceva 12
(Charming 80s themed bar)
Vinoteka Bornstein	Ulika Kapitol 19
(Enjoy finest wines in Zagreb)
Bikers Beer Factory	Savska cesta 150
(Casual atmosphere, friendly service, fresh Beer and music)
Mojo Bar	Ulika Marticeva 5
(Good music and great wine)
Hop In	Dubravkin trg 3
(Popular with craft beer lovers offers local beers on tap & selection of Bottled beers)
Mali Medo	Tkalciceva 36
(For Lagers, Wheat Beers & Porters from Medvedgrad brewery, a popular outdoor drinking spot of Zagreb)
Bacchus Jazz Bar	Kralja Tomislava 16
(A busy classic 1960s set-up, Dalmatian wines and cocktails to go)
Oliver Twist Pub	Tkalciceva 60
(Spread over 3 floors with Dickens memorabilia, pics of Jack Daniel, serves Guinness & Kilkenny on tap and a wide variety of hard spirits)

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Best Addresses to stay in Zagreb

6.1
Below we are listing Zagreb hotels and apartments area wise and star category wise:

Lower Town Area (Donji Grad)

5*

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel (Heritage property)
Sheraton Zagreb
Westin Zagreb
Hotel Le Premier
Palace Hotel Zagreb

Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre
Best Western Premier Hotel Astoria
Doubletree by Hilton Zagreb
Hilton Garden Inn
Hotel International
Hotel 9
Hotel AS

Hotel Jadran
Hotel Central
Lobagola B&B
Sundial Boutique Hotel

Best Addresses to stay in Zagreb (Contd.)

Upper Town Area (Gornji Grad)

Hotel Dubrovnik
Hotel President Pantovcak
Hotel Academia
Hotel Capital
Hotel Park 45
Pod Zidom Rooms
Art Hotel Like

Hotel Jagerhorn (Oldest hotel in Zagreb)
Manda Heritage Hotel
Hotel Croatia
Timeout Heritage Hotel

Best Addresses to stay in Zagreb (Contd.)

Maksimir Area

Garden Hotel
Livris Hotel
Hotel Puntijar

Hotel Laguna
Panorama Zagreb Hotel

Best Addresses to stay in Zagreb (Contd.)

Jarun Area

Admiral Hotel (with casino)

Hotel Jarun

Best Addresses to stay in Zagreb (Contd.)

Novi Zagreb Area

Hotel Diplomat
Hotel Aristors

Best Western Stella
Hotel Blue
Hotel Magdalena
Hotel Calypso

We hope you gained knowledge about Zagreb and enjoyed taking this course and now we look to your feedback on same.

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