It’s been a month since I landed in Croatia, and I still feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. Being here for the first time, I’m taking things in slowly, getting to know the people, the culture, and everyday life one step at a time. It feels like the right moment to share some first impressions!
A human-sized capital at the heart of a rich heritage
Zagreb strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. From the very beginning, I was captivated by the city’s dual personality: the Upper Town, perched up high, old and almost medieval, with its narrow alleys and steep stairways; and the Lower Town, wider, more structured, full of long avenues, grand buildings, and crisscrossed by ever-present trams.
What I love most about Zagreb is this constant feeling of being in a capital without the stress of a huge metropolis. The Opera District, with its cleanly aligned boulevards, elegant parks, and imposing Austro-Hungarian buildings, often makes me feel like I’ve walked into a movie set. There’s a subtle, almost Viennese refinement here that contrasts beautifully with the rustic charm of the old town. For this reason, I think Zagreb is one of the best places to visit in Croatia, and a must-see on any list of Croatian tourist attractions.
Between parks, panoramic views and hidden heritage
I’ve definitely found my favorite spots. At the top of the list is Zrinjevac Park, a real gem in the heart of the city. Its nostalgic carousel, sparkling fountains, and calm green spaces make it the perfect escape any time of day. For jaw-dropping views, nothing beats Bele IV Park, right next to the Lotrščak Tower. The pathway that leads to another panoramic point, overlooking both the Cathedral and the Church of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, offers some of the best places to see in Croatia—truly unforgettable.
One downside though, and it has to be mentioned, is the ongoing construction. Many landmarks, some no doubt stunning, are currently under renovation due to the 2020 earthquake. It’s a bit frustrating when you can’t explore a historic site, but it’s also a clear sign that the city values and protects its heritage!
A lively city and warm-hearted people
But Zagreb isn’t just about stone and parks. It’s also about its people, who are warm, proud of their culture, and always happy to share a slice of their daily life—something I clearly felt at Dolac Market, right in the city center. One thing I noticed early on: Croatians love animals. Dogs are everywhere—in parks, cafés, and on sidewalks. As a dog lover myself, I 100% agree with this!
I rely on public transport daily to get to the city center. There seems to be a tram or bus to take you pretty much anywhere, and compared to France, it’s surprisingly affordable. Sure, the schedules aren’t always perfectly on time (which can be annoying), but as long as you plan ahead a little, it’s manageable. That said, the app for trains isn’t exactly user-friendly—neither in terms of practicality nor translation for people like me—though you do get used to it quickly.
Once in the center, though, everything is walkable, which is perfect for slow travel. You notice little things, charming corners and hidden Croatian attractions you’d completely miss on a tram. That said, to reach Medvednica, I still need public transport—I’m not quite brave enough to hike there from home… yet.
The city is always buzzing with life. No matter the time, there’s always something going on: an exhibition, a museum, or just a lively bar to wind down the day. It’s exactly what you hope for in a capital—movement, animation, and real neighborhood life. Zagreb offers a glimpse into the authentic rhythm of Croatian life, and it’s the ideal start to Croatia itineraries for those seeking a local experience.
Discovering Croatian cuisine through a French lens
Coming from France, where food is almost a national religion, I wasn’t sure what to expect from Croatian cuisine. Let’s just say those doubts didn’t last long. Even though I haven’t had the chance to try that many things yet (it’s only been a month), a few discoveries already stand out. My first real one? Truffle štrukli. I’d been told about them at least ten times before finally giving in, and now I totally get the hype. Then came the čevapi, which I tried at the top of Zagreb, up in the Medvednica mountains. Great view, great food. And of course, some local wine—like Graševina, a crisp white that pairs beautifully with many Croatian travel packages that include wine tours.
Zagreb has been a wonderful introduction, but Croatia has so much more to offer. From the Dalmatian coast to the Istrian hills, every region promises different flavors, landscapes, and people. So far, helpful resources like Croatian Attractions and Croatia2Go have guided me through the best spots in Zagreb and provided valuable tips for exploring the city.
As I look ahead, I’m starting to explore Croatia vacation packages, from custom-made Croatia tours to luxury travel Croatia experiences that offer a deep dive into local culture. Whether you’re planning to go to Croatia for nature, cuisine, or history, there’s something for everyone.
For those dreaming of the best Croatia experiences, from charming cities to hidden beaches, the country’s growing list of Adriatic tours, Croatia trip packages, and Croatia tour packages offers something for every kind of traveler—from those seeking culture and cuisine to those chasing the sun.
Zagreb may have been my first stop, but this is just the beginning. Stay tuned as I continue to explore the best tours of Croatia, uncover more best places to go in Croatia, and embrace a style of Croatia custom made travel—one that’s a little slower, a little deeper, and a lot more fulfilling.
