Visit the Plitvice Lakes on a day-trip from Zagreb. You will not regret!

Are you looking for something to do while in Zagreb? Don’t limit yourself to the city itself, because one of the most fantastic places in all of Croatia is located less than 2 hours by car from Zagreb. You should definitely consider a day trip to the Plitvice Lakes.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder located in Croatia that attracts thousands of tourists every year. With 16 interconnected lakes and a series of cascading waterfalls, the park is a paradise for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore why it is worth visiting Plitvice Lakes and what you can expect to see and do during your visit.

The Plitvice Lakes are a natural beauty

The main attraction of Plitvice Lakes is, of course, its natural beauty. The park boasts 16 turquoise lakes that are interconnected by a series of waterfalls and cascades. The colors of the lakes range from deep blue to emerald green, and the water is so clear that you can see the fish swimming beneath the surface. The scenery is nothing short of magical and is sure to leave visitors awe-inspired.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Plitvice Lakes is by walking along the wooden footbridges that wind their way through the park. The footbridges take visitors past the various lakes and waterfalls, offering stunning views from all angles. The trails are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

The Plitvice Lakes has a fantastic geography

Plitvice Lakes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its unique geography. The park sits at the intersection of two major geological regions, resulting in a diverse range of rock formations and landscapes. The Korana River feeds the lakes and the water flows over porous limestone, resulting in the formation of travertine barriers and dams.

Over time, the water has carved out stunning canyons and valleys, creating a series of cascading waterfalls and lakes. The waterfalls range in size from small, trickling streams to thundering torrents of water that plunge over cliffs and into deep pools below. The park’s geological features are truly awe-inspiring and offer a glimpse into the power and beauty of nature.

You might see some cool animals.

Plitvice Lakes is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, lynx, and many species of birds. The park is a protected area, and visitors cannot disturb the animals or their habitats. However, visitors can observe the animals in their natural habitat while exploring the park.

Birdwatching is a popular activity in Plitvice Lakes, and visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including the Eurasian eagle-owl, the common buzzard, and the peregrine falcon. In the spring and summer months, visitors can also see a variety of butterflies and insects, including the endangered Balkan lynx butterfly.

You can enjoy different hiking trails.

Plitvice Lakes is a hiker’s paradise, with over 18 kilometers of well-marked trails that wind their way through the park. The trails range in difficulty from easy walks to strenuous hikes, so there is something for everyone. The park is open year-round and offers a unique hiking experience each season.

In the summer months, the trails are lush and green, and visitors can take a refreshing dip in the cool waters of the lakes. In the fall, the trees turn vibrant shades of orange and red, creating a stunning autumnal landscape. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-covered trails and frozen waterfalls in the winter months.


Would you like to read more about day-trips to the Plitvice Lakes? You can find different tours and options here. Another option is to rent a car in Zagreb and drive to the area on your own.

The 2020 earthquake in Zagreb

The big earthquake that struck Zagreb in 2020 was a significant event in the city’s history. The quake, which had a magnitude of 5.3 on the Richter scale, caused widespread damage and resulted in several fatalities.

The earthquake struck in the early morning hours and was felt across the city, causing buildings to collapse, power cuts, and widespread panic. The city’s infrastructure was severely impacted, with major damage reported to roads, bridges, and other key structures.

The response from the local authorities was quick, with rescue teams and medical personnel being deployed to the affected areas. The community also rallied around the affected residents, with volunteers and local organizations providing assistance and support to those in need.

The earthquake was a major event in the history of Zagreb, and its impact was felt for many months after the initial shock. Despite the challenges it faced, the city continued to show its resilience and strength, and it quickly began the process of rebuilding and recovery.


There was another earthquake in 1880 which had a magnitude of 6.3. One person was killed and lots of buildings were destroyed.

Hotels near Maksimir Park and Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb.

Maksimir Park and Maksimir Stadium are popular tourist destinations in Zagreb, Croatia. If you’re looking for a hotel nearby, there are several options to choose from. Maybe you want to live close to the park so you can take your dog for a walk in a nice area. Or maybe you are coming to Zagreb to watch Dinamo Zagreb play at Maksimir Stadium, and you need to live nearby?

There are a few hotels close to the stadium and the park. As a result, the nearest hotels are more than 2km from the park and the stadium. It is easy to travel to the park and the stadium using tram line 11, which stops at the popular Ben Jelasic square in the heart of Zagreb. It is also possible to travel to Maksimir stadium using bus line 218 from Ben Jelasic square.

Manda Heritage Hotel

The Manda Heritage Hotel is a hotel located in Zagreb, Croatia. This hotel is housed in a historic building that has been fully restored to provide guests with a unique and authentic experience. The hotel is known for its combination of old-world charm and modern comfort, making it a popular choice for travelers who appreciate history and contemporary amenities.

The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, each individually decorated with antique furnishings and artwork. The rooms are spacious and offer views of the city or the hotel’s tranquil courtyard. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a garden, providing guests with a variety of spaces in which to relax and unwind.

Manda Heritage Hotel

One of the highlights of the Manda Heritage Hotel is its central location in the heart of Zagreb. The hotel is within walking distance of many of the city’s top tourist attractions, including museums, galleries, and shopping and dining options.

Manda Heritage Hotel is 2.7km from Maksimir Park, which is approximately a 35-minute walk from the park.

Funk Lounge Hostel

The Funk Lounge Hostel is a hostel located in Zagreb, Croatia. This hostel is designed for budget-conscious travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay in the city. The hostel is known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular choice for solo travelers, backpackers, and young groups.

The hostel offers a variety of dorm rooms and private rooms, each of which is clean, simple, and functional. Guests have access to shared bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a common area, where they can socialize and meet other travelers. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the hostel, making it easy for guests to stay connected.

funk lounge hotel

If you want to live near Maksimir Park and Maksimir Stadium, this is as close as it gets.

Funk Lounge Hostel is located 850 meters from the park, making them both available with less than ten minutes of walking.

Superior Central Stay

Superior Central Stay is an apartment hotel located in Zagreb, Croatia. It offers spacious and well-appointed accommodations in the heart of the city, making it an ideal choice for both business and leisure travelers. It is known for its high-quality service and facilities, as well as its central location, which provides guests with easy access to the city’s top tourist attractions and transportation options.

Superior Central Stay near Maksimir Park

The hotel features a range of rooms and suites, each tastefully decorated and equipped with modern amenities. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center, providing guests with a variety of options for dining, relaxation, and exercise.

This apartment hotel is located 1.5km from Maksimir Park, making it one of the best opportunities if you want to live close to the park and the stadium during your days in Zagreb.


We hope these recommendations have helped you in the process of booking accommodation in Zagreb. If you want to read more about other hotels in Zagreb, click the link.

What to do in Maksimir Park?

Now that you have found accommodation near Maksimir Park, it is time to plan what to do. Here you have some suggestions for nice activities in the Maksimir Park.

Enjoy nature.

Maksimir Park is known for its beautiful natural environment, which includes forests, meadows, and a lake. Take a leisurely walk or hike through the park and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty.

Visit the Zoo.

Maksimir Park is home to the Zagreb Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in Europe and is home to a wide variety of animals, including tigers, monkeys, and elephants.

Bring a ball and do some sports.

The park offers several sports facilities, including tennis courts, soccer fields, and a running track, making it ideal for sports enthusiasts to enjoy their favorite activities.

Find out if there are any concerts, festivals, or exhibitions in the park.

Maksimir Park is also a popular venue for cultural events, including concerts, festivals, and exhibitions, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience the local culture.

Bring a blanket and have a nice picnic in the park.

Pack a picnic and spend a lazy afternoon relaxing on the park’s lush lawns, surrounded by nature and beautiful views.

Dig into the history of the buildings of the park.

The park is also home to several historical monuments and buildings, including the Maksimir Palace, once the residence of the Archbishop of Zagreb, and the Maksimir Chapel, one of the oldest wooden chapels in Croatia.

Where to go for a run in Zagreb?

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a popular destination for runners and fitness enthusiasts. Its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and lush green spaces make it the perfect place to get out and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you are looking for a scenic route, a challenging workout, or a way to explore the city, there are plenty of options for running in Zagreb.

Park Maksimir is one of the most popular destinations for runners in the city. This large park is home to several trails and paths that are perfect for running, lakes, and gardens. With its rolling hills, natural beauty, and peaceful atmosphere, it is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and get in a good workout.

Another popular destination for runners is Jarun Lake. Located on the outskirts of Zagreb, this large lake is surrounded by parks and forests and is a popular spot for joggers and runners. The lake has several paths and trails that are perfect for running and plenty of space for stretching and warming up.

Jarun Lake Zagreb

Strossmayer Promenade is another popular route for runners in Zagreb. This path runs along the Sava River, and offers stunning views of the city. With plenty of running space, benches, and picnic areas, it is a great place to take a break and enjoy the scenery.

For those who are looking for a quick run in the city, Cvjetni Trg is an ideal destination. This central square is surrounded by parks and gardens and is a popular spot for runners looking for a convenient and easy place to run. Its central location and easy access make it the perfect place to get in a quick workout.

Finally, Tuskanac Forest Park is the perfect destination for those looking for a more challenging run. This large park is located on the outskirts of Zagreb and is known for its hilly terrain and challenging trails. With its beautiful scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and challenging terrain, it is the perfect place for runners looking for a more intense workout.

No matter where you choose to run in Zagreb, there is sure to be a perfect route. Whether you are looking for a scenic route, a challenging workout, or simply a way to explore the city, Zagreb has plenty of options for runners. So get out there, lace up your shoes, and enjoy all that this beautiful city has to offer.

Is it possible to visit Ljubljana on a day-trip from Zagreb?

Yes, it is possible to visit Ljubljana on a day-trip from Zagreb. The distance between the two cities is approximately 140 kilometers and the quickest route by car takes around 2 hours. Alternatively, there are regular bus and train services between the two cities which take around 2-3 hours depending on the service chosen. So, if you have a full day and leave early in the morning from Zagreb, you can easily visit Ljubljana and return to Zagreb the same day.

The easiest way to travel between the two cities is by joining an organized tour that will take you directly from your hotel in Zagreb to Ljubljana. Several tours are available in which you also visit the fantastic Bled, and some even add the world-famous dripstone cave in Postojna to the day-trips.

  • If you want to look at different options for day-tours to Ljubljana from Zagreb, check this site.
Ljubljana trip from Zagreb

What to see in Ljubljana?

Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, is a charming city with many important attractions to visit. Here we will shortly summarize some of the most important attractions in Ljubljana.

Ljubljana Castle: A historic castle situated on a hill overlooking the city, offering panoramic views of Ljubljana and its surroundings.

Prešeren Square: The central square of Ljubljana, named after Slovenia’s greatest poet and a cultural hub of the city.

Triple Bridge: A unique bridge spanning the Ljubljanica River, connecting the old town with the modern city.

Tivoli Park: A large park in the center of Ljubljana, offering a peaceful escape from the busy city.

Ljubljana Cathedral: A stunning baroque church located in the heart of the old town, featuring intricate carvings and frescoes.

Ljubljana Central Market: A bustling open-air market offering local food, crafts, and souvenirs.

The National Museum of Slovenia: A museum showcasing Slovenia’s cultural and historical heritage.

These are just some of the wonderful attractions and sites worth exploring in Ljubljana. For more information, take a look at the Ljubljana Guide.

Ten spring activities in Zagreb.

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Zagreb, with its mild weather and blooming flowers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during this time of year. Here are some of the best things to do in Zagreb this spring.

10 spring activities in zagreb

Visit Maksimir Park: This beautiful park is a must-visit during spring, with its lush greenery and blooming flowers. Stroll through the gardens, take a picnic, or simply relax in the sun.

Explore the Upper Town: Take a walk around the historic neighborhood and visit St. Mark’s Church, Zagreb Cathedral, and the Museum of Broken Relationships. The Upper Town offers stunning views over the city, and its narrow cobbled streets are perfect for a spring stroll.

Visit the Zagreb Botanical Garden: With a diverse collection of plants and flowers, including several greenhouses filled with exotic species, this is the perfect place for a spring day out.

Take a stroll along Tkalčićeva street: This lively pedestrian street is lined with cafes, bars, and restaurants, perfect for a spring evening out. Enjoy a drink or a meal while people-watching and taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Enjoy a picnic in one of Zagreb’s parks: Grab a blanket, some food, and enjoy a picnic in the sun. There are several parks to choose from, including King Tomislav Park, Ribnjak Park, and Zrinjevac Park.

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art: Take a break from the outdoors and admire the exhibitions and installations from some of the world’s most innovative artists. This museum is a must-visit for art lovers and is located in the heart of the city.

Explore the Mirogoj Cemetery: This stunning cemetery is one of the largest and most beautiful in Europe, with many notable tombs and monuments. It’s a peaceful and serene place to visit, and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Visit the Zoo: Take a walk through the park and visit the zoo to see a wide range of animals, including monkeys, giraffes, and more. The zoo is a great place for families and animal lovers and is easily accessible from the city centre.

Go on a bike tour: Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels, taking in all the sights and sounds of spring in Zagreb. This is a great way to see the city’s parks, gardens, and historic neighborhoods and get some exercise.

Take a cooking class: Learn how to cook some of Croatia’s most popular dishes and taste the season’s flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, there are plenty of classes to choose from, with something for everyone.

Travel to Plitvice: Plitvice isn’t in Zagreb, but if you travel by car, you can get there in 90 minutes. This is one of the most beautiful areas in Croatia and it is wonderful during spring.

Plitvice lakes
Visit the amazing Plitvice lakes

In conclusion, spring is the perfect time to visit Zagreb, with its mild weather and blooming flowers. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from parks and gardens to museums and historic neighbourhoods. So why not take a trip to Zagreb this spring and discover all that this beautiful city has to offer.

The top places to visit in Croatia.

Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Croatia.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a medieval walled city that sits on the Adriatic coast. It is known for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning sea views. The city is also home to several historic sites, including the Dubrovnik Cathedral, the Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery.

dubrovnik in croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park

This national park is one of the most famous attractions in Croatia and is known for its stunning waterfalls and crystal clear lakes. The park has a series of interconnected waterfalls and lakes that are surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. Visitors can explore the park by hiking on the well-maintained trails or by taking a boat tour. You can read more about Plitvice here.

Split

Split is a coastal city that is located on the central Dalmatian coast. It is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic sites. Some of the most notable attractions in Split include the Diocletian’s Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Pjaca Square.

Hvar Island

Hvar is a stunning island located in the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its clear waters, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The island is also home to several historic sites, including the Hvar Fortress, the Cathedral of Saint Stephen, and the Hvar Theatre.

Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is located in the central part of the country. It is a beautiful city with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Zagreb’s most notable attractions include the Upper Town, the Zagreb Cathedral, and the Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art.

Istria

Istria is a peninsula located in the northwestern part of Croatia. It is known for its rolling hills, stunning coastline, and historic towns. Some of the most notable attractions in Istria include the Pula Arena, the Euphrasian Basilica, and the Lim Fjord.

pula in croatia

Korčula Island

Korčula is a beautiful island located in the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its clear waters, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The island is also home to several historic sites, including the Korčula Cathedral, the Korčula Town Museum, and the Moreska Sword Dance.


These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Croatia. Whether you’re interested in exploring the country’s rich history, admiring its stunning natural beauty, or simply relaxing on its beautiful beaches, there is something for everyone in this incredible country.

What is the best food in Zagreb and Croatia?

Zagreb and Croatia are home to a rich and diverse culinary culture that draws from the country’s long history and its location at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean. From hearty stews and grilled meats to sweet pastries and fresh seafood, there is something to satisfy every taste. Here are some of the most popular dishes in Zagreb and Croatia.

Pasticada

This slow-cooked beef stew is one of the most beloved dishes in Croatia and is especially popular in the region around Zagreb. The meat is marinated for several hours in a mixture of wine, vinegar, and spices before being cooked with onions, garlic, and a sweet and sour sauce. The final result is a tender and flavorful dish that is typically served with gnocchi.

Čevapi

This simple but satisfying dish consists of grilled sausages made from a mixture of beef and pork that are served in a soft flatbread with raw onions and a dollop of sour cream. Čevapi is a staple of Croatian cuisine and is popular throughout the country, especially as a quick and casual meal.

cevapi in zagreb

Black Risotto

This unique dish is made with cuttlefish that is simmered with onions, garlic, wine, and parsley to create a rich and flavorful broth. The cuttlefish is then combined with arborio rice to make a creamy and delicious risotto that is often served as a main course.

Strukli

This traditional pastry is a favorite among Croatians and is made from a soft and flaky dough that is filled with a mixture of cheese and sour cream. Strukli can be served sweet or savory and is typically boiled in water or milk until it is cooked through.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Zagreb and Croatia also offer a wide variety of international cuisine, including Italian, Asian, and Mediterranean-style. For example, Italian-style pizzerias and gelaterias are popular throughout the country, as are Asian-style noodle shops and sushi restaurants. And for those looking for a taste of the Mediterranean, many seafood restaurants in Zagreb and along the coast serve fresh and flavorful dishes made with the catch of the day.


Overall, the food in Zagreb and Croatia is characterized by its use of fresh and seasonal ingredients, its focus on hearty and comforting dishes, and its respect for traditional recipes and techniques. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a multi-course feast, there is something to satisfy every craving in this vibrant and delicious culinary culture.

Is there a way to watch Croatian Netflix outside Croatia?

Have you seen a great show on Croatian Netflix that you would like to keep on watching, even when abroad (that is, outside Croatia)? Are your kids watching a children series that they just want to watch, but they can’t, because you are abroad?

Earlier life was easy. When you traveled abroad you didn’t bring your TV with you, and it was obvious that you couldn’t watch your local TV stations when raging around in the big world. Today things are different. We have smart devices, smart TV plugins, meaning that you can easily access and watch your favorite streaming services all across the world. But, if you visit another country and open the Netflix application, you will quickly discover that the content you see is different. What has happened? You are watching the Netflix content available in your current nation, and not the Netflix content available in Croatia. What can you do to fix this?

Can I watch Netflix in Croatia?

Can I watch Croatian Netflix abroad?

No matter how much I would love to say yes, my current answer to the question is no! I have tested a whole lot of VPN providers, but no matter which one I have tested, the answer is no. There might be that the IPSX platform will be able to help you in the future, but besides that, I do not see any option or easy solution for those who want to watch Croatian Netflix abroad.

If you are an adult, you can still access Netflix and watch content with Croatian subtitles (or English subtitles), but if you want to have the actual content of Croatian Netflix or maybe some Croatian audio, you will most likely suffer as you travel abroad.

So, I guess you should bring a DVD with some local content instead if it is that important. A Croatian IP address might help you get access to and watch live streams of other Croatian TV channels, but it will not help you watch Croatian Netflix.

If you would rather watch content in some other Netflix region, you can visit netflix.fromabroad.org to find out how you can get access to American Netflix and other Netflix nations. But, that might not be exactly what you are looking for.

Do you know of any other solution or way to watch Croatian Netflix?

Can I watch Netflix in Croatia?

Are you coming to Croatia and are you worried about whether or not you will be able to watch Netflix? You will be able to watch Netflix, but just like a Croatian person abroad will get access to the Netflix content of that given country, you will only have access to the content available on Netflix in Croatia. That is for sure a smaller amount of content than you will find on Netflix in the USA (and other larger regions), but it is still packed with snacks, so you shouldn’t be bored.

But, do not forget – you have come to Zagreb and Croatia to do sightseeing, not sit inside in front of your display to watch Netflix!! 🙂

Zagreb Christmas markets in 2017

 Would you like to experience one of the best Christmas markets in Europe in 2017? Come to beautiful Zagreb to enjoy the cities amazing Christmas markets!

Earlier this year Lonely Planet voted Zagreb to be one of the best destinations to visit in Europe in 2017. Haven’t you had the time to visit the town yet? The best is yet to come because between December 2nd and January 8th the annual and highly praised Christmas market will be available in the Croatian capital.

On the 2nd of December the annual Christmas market at the Main Market square in Prague will open as well. Other cities such as Budapest, Krakow and Vienna will open their Christmas markets one to three weeks earlier than Zagreb.

Zagreb Christmas market dates 2017

December 2nd, 2017 – January 8th, 2018

Dates for the Christmas markets in Zagbre 2017
Check out the beautiful Christmas markets in Zagreb in 2017 – By DeymosHR / Shutterstock

Zagreb doesn’t have only one big Christmas market; they have several markets. One of the most impressing markets with a big ice skating rink is located in the Ledeni Park, in front of the National Theater.

Another beautiful Christmas market is located in the Zrinjevac Park, and only a couple of hundred meters from there you find the main square of the city, the Ben Jelacic square. On both spots, you will find awesome Christmas markets.

You will also find Christmas markets at the Europski trg and some other locations.

Ready for some Christmas shopping in Zagreb?

At the Christmas markets in Zagreb, you will not only find food and drinks. You can also buy lots of hand-made products, perfect to give away for Christmas, or to buy them for yourself, and find some other junk at home to give away to your friends instead.

Are you looking forward to the Christmas markets in Zagreb? If you have any comments or questions, please use the comment field beneath.