Since there are few direct flights to Zagreb, we got into Zagreb in the afternoon. After picking up our luggage, we rented a car and drove to our Airbnb close to the main square of the city. Given the limited parking available on streets, we parked in the underground parking garage in the building that we were staying at and charging about €1.6 per hour. We took it easy that day, just wandering around the main square of Zagreb and checking out restaurants. The Airbnb we stayed in was within walking distance of all the Zagreb sights and was excellent in that regard. The host was also gracious to let us stay many hours after the checkout time which allowed us to spend as much time in Zagreb before starting to the Plitvice.
After resting for a few hours, we set out to the main plaza, Ban Josip Jelacic Square after 5pm, where locals meet. The square was full of people, locals and tourists and with no vehicular traffic allowed, people were wandering around as they pleased. The square is named after 19th-century ruler, Count Josip Jelačić who was considered an expert military strategist. His statue was erected in the square in the 1800’s apparently facing the building and it was in the 20th century that they turned the statue around!
We then walked the narrow streets to Lotrscak Tower which brings you to the upper town. Built to guard the southern gate of the Gradec town wall, the Lotrscak Tower (Kula Lotrscak) dates to the 13th century and has long been one of Zagreb’s most recognizable landmarks. Legend has it that this large, square Romanesque tower once held a bell that rang out each night prior to the closing of the gates to warn residents outside the walls to return (anyone left outside would have to remain there for the night). We climbed the tower for stunning views over the city. You also get a view of the shortest shortest funicular in the world.
We then walked through the Stone Gate, the only medieval city gate that survived until present day. Built in the 13th century, the building famously survived a fire in 1731, as did its painting of Mary and Jesus.
We also went on a 2-hour walking tour of Zagreb with a guide who was very knowledgeable and got to see many some more sights:
- Zagreb Cathedral – Impressive Neo-Gothic cathedral which was unfortunately under renovation when we were there and has been so for some years now and closed to public.
- Dolac Market – largest farmer’s market in Croatia and open daily.
- Saint Mark’s church – Famous for its colorful roof. This was also closed to public
- Croatian Parliament building – This building was in the same plaza as the St, Mark’s church
