Itineraries for Your Trip to Zagreb
3 Days in Zagreb for Foodies
Zagreb’s food scene might not attract swarms of visitors to the capital. But that doesn't diminish how much of a role the café culture and food traditions of the city play in Croatian culture. The inland capital has always featured hearty, roast meat dishes steeped in tradition heavily influenced by the seasonal produce available from the fertile farmlands. However, the ever-changing city has also embraced European gastropub fare, street food, and Mediterranean influences.
This 3-day itinerary helps you experience both the new and old of the Zagreb food scene, from traditional dishes to European fusion.
Warm, muggy summers make way for very cold winters in Zagreb.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Croatian coffee hour.
Begin day one with a foodie tour of Zagreb, taking in this ancient city's sights, sounds, and smells while learning about traditional Croat cooking. Known for its bustling market culture, Zagreb offers chances to meet traders and see how locals shop. Learn how to cook a Croatian brunch at the famous Dolac Market before enjoying a wine tasting at a city winery.
After sampling the city's culinary delights, it's time for a walk or to take a bike tour of the surroundings to get to know the city scenery. Stop for a coffee en route between taking in the views.
Today, escape the city to sample the country's best wine on a tour that blends history, culture, and tastings. Trakošćan Castle is one of the best preserved of Croatia's castles and is the perfect setting for an authentic wine-tasting experience. Take a trip back in time and meet the current castle owner, before trying local vintages in a beautiful setting.
If wine isn't your thing, stay local and take a walking food tour where you'll explore the Old Town and visit the city's notable sites, including Zagreb Cathedral and the Stone Gate, sampling the gastronomy of the city along the way.
On your final day, begin with a local breakfast at spots like Otto & Frank or Eggspress. Afterward, enjoy the imposing buildings in Ban Jelacic Square, the city's beating heart. Croatians love coffee, and you'll be spoiled for choice on a tour of the best roasters and coffee shops.
Have lunch at Konoba Didov San, sampling Croatian gastronomic delights. Do some last-minute shopping on Ilica Street and admire its elegant, neo-baroque architecture. Later, tour the city's street art with a local artist. Finally, splurge on a Michelin-star dinner. We recommend Gallo or Le Bistro Esplanade.
