Why you should go to Zagreb this summer
Lush green parks throughout the city center, imposing heritage buildings, real Central European cafe society, Mediterranean style hospitality. Welcome to Zagreb, Croatia’s stunning capital!
Rich in culture including museums, theatres, galleries, authentic markets and a surprisingly buzzing nightlife, Zagreb has become a favourite for Norwegian tourists looking to get some (reliable) sun.
Add a great gourmet scene from quirky bistros to fine dining, exciting events, a wide range of accommodation choices, easy access to Croatia’s famous coast, plus some excellent shopping, and this is a place for the “must see” list.
Plus there are exciting events of all kinds happening all summer long…here are the top events you should check out, plus how to get there.
Enjoy!
The Zagreb Time Machine (April 24 - October 1)
Photo: Sanjin Kastelan
Step back in time as the streets fill with nostalgia and charm. Old traditions are revived, historical figures wander among the locals and tourists in costume, and there are street performers, promenade concerts and “kumice” (market ladies), all from a bygone era.
Summer on Stross at the Strossmayer Promenade (May 18 - September 17)
Photo: Sanjin Kastelan
The spirit of Paris comes to Zagreb! Around every corner of the romantic Strossmayer Promenade, art colonies, musicians, installations, fashion shows, and open-air cinema events will make you feel as if you were in the famous Montmartre. Don’t forget ‘Half Year’s Eve’ with fireworks and ‘The Best Mutt Dog Awards’. Bonjour!
Cest is 'best (May 31 - June 4)
Photo: Marko Vrdoljak
Croatia’s most vibrant street festival fills up the city streets with comedians, dancers, musicians, jugglers and clowns. Locals and tourists are welcome to join in – and they’re often persuaded to! This is fun and energetic. Children love it too.
Design District Zagreb (June 13 - 18)
Photo: Davor Rostuhar
Design enthusiasts will be delighted as Zagreb’s Martićeva Street becomes the main headquarters of this organic renaissance. Expect numerous pop-up showcases, site-specific art installations, rooftop events, exclusive architecture tours, socially valuable designer concepts, food & coffee spots, educative and craft workshops, and more!
IN Music Festival at Jarun Lake(June 19 - 21)
Photo: J. Duval
Croatia’s largest open-air music event has found itself occupying a spot on the ‘50 Best Festivals in the World’ list. With over 50,000 goers savouring the sounds of the best rock and urban world acts, check out this year's lineup that includes Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire, Michael Kiwanuka, Kasabian, Public Service Broadcasting, Slaves, Flogging Molly, Darko Rundek, Kel Assouf, The Strange, Booka Shade, HAUS, St.Tropez, Danko Jones and many more!
Zagreb Rockfest, SRC Šalata (June 26 - 27)
One of the greatest rock bands of the 1980s, wildly popular in Croatia, legendary The Cult will be playing at Šalata in Zagreb on 27 June this year.On 26th of June, one day before The Cult, the Prophets of Rage, House of Pain and Black Peaks will also be playing at Šalata.
We Love Sound Zagreb Weekend Takeover (July 2- 4)
A two-day event brings the biggest names of electronic music to the new open air / club festival: LOCO DICE, Timo Maas Official Page, Chris Liebing, tINI, Valentino Kanzyani, Enzo Siragusa, Archie Hamilton, Rossko, Felver, Mimi, Labud, Homeboy live, Mariano Mateljan, Pepi Jogarde, Ivan Mastermix.
Photo: Sanjin Kastelan
‘Every courtyard has a story’ is the slogan of this amazing event which opens some of Zagreb’s most gorgeous Upper Town gardens and yards to visitors. Experience 10 unforgettable days of discovering beauty, history, and secrets of some of the most beautiful palaces and their yards in the very heart of the Upper Town! Lots of other surprises are in store, too!
Photo: Sanjin Kastelan
Where to stay
Zagreb offers a wide range of accommodation possibilities to suit any budget or taste, from luxury five star hotels to accommodation suitable for visitors on a tighter budget. Whatever the type of accommodation you choose, you will find consistent standards and quality of service.
How to get there
There are plenty of regular flights from Sweden to Zagreb - check out more info on which airlines fly to Zagreb here.
Zagreb Card
The Zagreb Card is your best companion when in Zagreb, entitling you to free public transport and free visits or discounts at over 50 different locations. You can find detailed information and a complete list of available discounts here.
This content was paid for by an advertiser and produced by The Local's Creative Studio.
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