In this article, we have gathered 17 ideas for programs in Zagreb which are completely free, meaning that you can enjoy them without paying anything at all. Of course, you will for sure be tempted to buy an ice cream as you stroll around the streets of Zagreb on a warm summer day, or buy something as you visit the popular Dolac Market. But still, you don’t have to pay anything at all to just see these places and to feel the atmosphere of the parks, markets, and other places included in this article.

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17 free programs and activities in Zagreb

1. Stroll Through the Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

The historic Upper Town is home to some of Zagreb’s most iconic sights. Wander the cobbled streets, admire the colorful facades, and take in landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its stunning tiled roof. The area offers breathtaking views of the city, perfect for photography enthusiasts. You can also visit the charming courtyards and hidden alleyways that add to the city’s character.

2. Visit Dolac Market

Known as the “Belly of Zagreb,” Dolac Market is a must-visit. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, you can enjoy the lively atmosphere, see traditional Croatian produce, and admire the iconic red umbrellas covering the stalls. On weekends, you might catch local musicians and performers adding to the vibrant scene. Even though it isn’t really an attraction, many people include the Dolac Market on their lists of the most important attractions in Zagreb.

3. Relax in Zrinjevac Park

One of Zagreb’s most beautiful parks, Zrinjevac, is a great place to take a break. Surrounded by historical buildings, this green oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or even catching free concerts in the summer months. During winter, the park transforms into a magical Christmas market with festive decorations and lights.

4. Explore Maksimir Park

Maksimir Park is the largest park in Zagreb and a wonderful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It features beautiful lakes, scenic trails, and plenty of benches to sit and relax. You might also spot some of the park’s wildlife, such as turtles and swans, adding to the peaceful experience.

5. See the Changing of the Guard

Every Saturday from April to October, you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guard at St. Mark’s Church. This traditional spectacle includes drummers, standard-bearers, and guards in historical uniforms. The ceremony is a great way to experience Zagreb’s heritage and military traditions.

6. Take a Free Walking Tour

Many local companies offer free walking tours where guides share fascinating stories about Zagreb’s history, legends, and landmarks. Although the tour is free, tipping the guide is appreciated. Some tours focus on different themes, such as Zagreb’s hidden gems or its dark past.

7. Visit the Medvednica Mountain

If you enjoy nature and hiking, Medvednica Mountain, just outside the city, offers numerous trails and stunning panoramic views of Zagreb. The hike to the top is free, and along the way, you can see medieval fortresses and caves. Winter visitors can enjoy snow-covered trails and the crisp mountain air.

8. Admire the Street Art in the Tunnel Grič

Tunnel Grič, built during World War II, has been transformed into a cultural hotspot featuring street art and exhibitions. The tunnel is open to the public and offers a unique perspective on the city’s artistic side. It also serves as a cool refuge on hot summer days.

9. Explore the Mirogoj Cemetery

Mirogoj Cemetery is more than just a resting place—it’s an architectural masterpiece. The grand arcades, sculptures, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of Zagreb’s most impressive landmarks. Walking through its pathways, you can learn about famous Croatians buried there.

10. Watch the Noon Cannon at Lotrščak Tower

Every day at exactly noon, a cannon fires from Lotrščak Tower, marking the time as it has for centuries. You can witness this tradition for free from various spots in the Upper Town. It’s a fun way to experience one of Zagreb’s oldest customs.

11. Check Out the Zagreb 80s Museum (Free on Certain Days)

If you happen to be in Zagreb on a day when the museum offers free entry, you can explore a nostalgic collection of items from the 1980s and relive a bit of the past. The museum features retro decor and interactive exhibits that transport visitors back in time.

12. Enjoy Free Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Zagreb hosts numerous free events, including concerts, film screenings, and cultural festivals. Be sure to check local event listings to see what’s happening during your visit. Some popular free events include the Advent Festival, Cest is d’Best street festival, and open-air cinema nights. You can read more about other upcoming concerts, festivals, and markets in Zagreb at our “what’s happening in Zagreb“-page.

13. Walk Along the Sava River

The Sava River runs through Zagreb, offering scenic riverside walks and peaceful green spaces. Locals often jog or cycle along the paths, and you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area without spending a cent.

14. Visit the Botanical Garden

The Zagreb Botanical Garden is free to visit and showcases a variety of plant species from around the world. It’s a tranquil spot perfect for nature lovers, offering well-maintained paths and picturesque ponds.

Unfortunately, the park is no longer free, so you actually have to buy an entrance fee which is approximately €2. Still, it is worth it if you want to spend some hours out in the free looking at beautiful flowers in a green environment. You can find more information at the official website of the botanical garden in Zagreb.

15. Admire the Cathedral of Zagreb

The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. While donations are welcome, entry to this stunning Gothic cathedral is free. Inside, you can marvel at the intricate details and historical significance of the structure.

16. Watch Street Performers at Ban Jelačić Square

Ban Jelačić Square is Zagreb’s main plaza and a hub for street performers, musicians, and artists. You can enjoy a variety of live performances and soak in the lively atmosphere while admiring the historic architecture surrounding the square.

17. Discover the Secret Passages of the Upper Town

Zagreb’s Upper Town is filled with hidden alleys, secret staircases, and lesser-known pathways. Exploring these passages allows you to uncover unique perspectives of the city and stumble upon unexpected historical sites.

As you have probably realized by now, there are lots of activities waiting for you in Zagreb for which you do not have to pay anything at all. Isn’t that nice? But, we also recommend that you spend some money now and then to boost the experiences even more. So, by some nice pastry and cold drinks that you can bring along as you lie down to relax in the Maximir park. Bring a bottle of cold water that you can drink as you walk up and own the stairs in the upper town of Zagreb, and make sure to have a full battery on your phone so that you can make awesome pictures throughout your days exploring the city of Zagreb.

Once again, enjoy all these free programs in Zagreb. If you have further advice or suggestions, write a comment!

The post Free Things to Do in Zagreb appeared first on Zagreb Info.

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.

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.

• Check the price and book a room in Manda Heritage Hotel today

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.

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

• Check the prices and book a room in Funk Lounge Hostel.

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.

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.

• Check the prices and book a room in Superior Central Stay.

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.

The post Hotels near Maksimir Park and Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb. appeared first on Zagreb Info.

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.

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.

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The Maksimir Park is a park with long traditions. It was the first large public park in Central-Europe and it was opened in 1794. Today it is a large park built in the style of a traditional English park. It has several lakes inside of it and a rich amount of birds and animals abiding in it. Who wouldn’t find a squirrel running around romantic on such a walk?

In addition to being a big park you can also find Zagreb Zoo inside the gates of the Maksimir Park. It has its own entrance, but if you want to spend some hours out in the free we can warmly recommend a visit to the Zoo as well.

Get to Maksimir Park

To get to Maksimir Park you can travel with train number 4, 11 or 12 from the main square in Zagreb. You need to get of the tram at the stop named Bukovacka. For more information on the public transportation in Zagreb, tickets and more, check out our Zagreb Transportation Guide.

Did Dinamo Zagreb just score a goal?

If you like football then you can kind off get live updates on Dinamo Zagreb while in the Maksimir Park. Just across the road from the park you will find their home stadium. As a result you will get live updates on the Dinamo Zagreb matches while in the park. If you hear crazy cheering and shouts of joy Dinamo Zagreb has just scored.

Do not miss out on Maksimir Park while in Zagreb!

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