Don’t decide where to spend the holidays in Europe without first considering Advent in Zagreb! This enchanting Advent season in Zagreb, also known as the Zagreb Christmas market, is a sight to behold.
Enjoy glamorous Christmas lights lining the streets, the enticing aroma of plum mulled wine flowing through the wintery air, festive stalls, and a plethora of Christmas cheer surrounding this beautiful city.
Here’s everything you need to know when planning a trip to the magical city of Zagreb, Croatia.
Overview of Advent in Zagreb
Situated in the northwest of Croatia lies Zagreb, the vibrant capital of Croatia. It sits near the Medvednica Mountain and is known as the largest city in the country.
This city is a stunning combination of medieval architecture, contemporary culture and art, and offers a spectacular serene blue coastline. Plus during Advent Zagreb the abundance of brightly colored lights grants a dazzling Christmassy cityscape.
Zagreb Advent info
While this charming city is often overlooked by travelers, a visit during winter to Zagreb’s Advent will have you shell shocked to celebrating the beauty of Christmas Zagreb-style edition. From hearty sausages to artisanal crafts, ice skating rinks, performances and live music, there’s an abundance of winter activities to explore within the city.
Evan and I spent Christmas in Zagreb last year. Honestly, it was one of the best Christmas markets in Europe that we explored. We toured through a plethora of enchanting European Christmas markets at popular destinations like Barcelona, and visited holiday markets in Eastern Europe at off-the-beaten cities such as Kiev, Ukraine and Sofia, Bulgaria.
While each these magical markets offer unique attractions, hand crafted goodies, traditional food, and jolly ambiances set amongst the city lights, we fully understand why European Best Destinations awarded Advent in Zagreb the Best Christmas Market in Europe for three consecutive years.
With well over ten Christmas market attractions, a schedule of live performances, lightening ceremonies, a Christmas trolley, a live nativity scene and more — Zagreb hosts a wide variety of spectacular Christmas activities.
Head over to Ban Jelacic Square where the tourist information office is located to grab an Advent map and schedule. The schedule includes times and locations of all events for Advent in Zagreb.
Address of the tourist information office — Trg bana Josipa Jelačića 11, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Zagreb Christmas market dates and times
- Market dates: November 28, 2020 – January 1, 2021
- Market times:
- 11:00 am – 11:00 pm on Sunday – Thursday
- 11:00 am – 1:00 am on Friday – Saturday
Every year Advent in Zagreb opens in late November and closes in mid January after its spectacular New Years celebration. Tourist and locals find themselves exploring this market closest to Christmas, with late November and early December showing the least amount of traffic.
Additionally, the Christmas markets are open everyday. Generally speaking, the hours on Sunday to Thursday are 11:00 am to 11:00 pm, while the weekends are open for an extra two hours (i.e. Friday and Saturday from 11:00 am – 1:00 am).
Be sure to check the hours at each attraction because the hours can vary. There is a detailed schedule on the Advent Zagreb website — click here for more info.
Cost of the Advent in Zagreb
Admission to the market is free, as well as most attractions and shows. Although, other activities such as ice skating, delving into the holiday market food and purchasing beautiful handcrafted souvenirs do cost money.
Additionally, Croatia uses a different currency than Euros. Instead, Croatia using the currency Kuna. Here’s an idea of what the conversion is from USD to Kuna (HRK).
- 1 USD — 6.5 HRK
Money tip: These conversions change frequently, so always double check! I recommend exchanging your money in Croatia, but you can always exchange beforehand.
Sneak peak of Advent in Zagreb
Here’s a virtual tour of what you can expect the Christmas markets in Zagreb to look like. While the theme changes each year (during our visit the theme was gingerbread), the attraction locations are the same.
Zagreb Christmas market 2020
This year Zagreb’s Advent will open! Compared to previous years, it will be slightly modified to adhere for public health and safety concerns; however, an enchanting Christmas ambiance for 2020 will still be felt.
The Christmas markets in Zagreb remain open from November 28, 2020 till January 1, 2021 with non traditional setting.
Click here for more information.
Additionally, if you want to experience a winter wonderland in Croatia, consider a day trip to the dazzling aqua blue lakes and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Here are the best Christmas market attractions to checkout when visiting Advent in Zagreb.
Christmas markets in Zagreb
Ban Jelacic Square
- Reason to visit: a giant Christmas tree, live musical performances, snug food stalls that are both heated and covered
- Cost: (0-$$) free entry + cost of food, drinks, souvenirs
Located in the heart of the city is Ban Jelacic Square. This square is where most visitors begin their Advent Zagreb holiday by exploring the huge beautifully decorated Christmas, staying warm by the heated food popups, admiring the twinkling fountain of light display, and listening to the live musical performances.
Sip some full bodied mulled wine as you tour through the maze of wooden artisanal stalls selling items ranging from handcraft ornaments to sausages, and various other trinkets. Known as one of the main Christmas markets in Zagreb, Ban Jelacic Square becomes packed with holiday enthusiasts bundling up to spread holiday cheer.
After exploring this square, venture off through the unique side streets for a more intimate market experience with shops decorated for the holidays, or continue exploring the market by following the Advent map or the Christmas stalls.
King Tomislav Square
- Reason to visit: Ice skating rink (Ice Park), colorful lights throughout the square, pop-up tents with food, warm beverages and music
- Ice skating cost: 15 HRK for renting ice skates
- 15 HRK for entry before 4:00 pm
- 20 HRK for entry after 4:00 pm
The Ice Park located at Ledeni Park at King Tomislav Square is a winter fanatics dream. With enchanting lanterns lighting up the night sky, live music, and the thrill of zooming around a giant ice skating rink, this attraction will leave you feeling the holiday spirit.
Grab skates and zoom around the premise, or stand watch at the Ice Park Viewpoint–a terrace with a scenic view for overlooking the rink. Delve into a piping hot mug of mulled wine while you watch the ice skaters dance on ice, or admire the Art Pavilion area with its cozy romantic atmosphere created by the fountain and holiday music.
Evan and I didn’t rent skates. Rather we enjoyed the romantic vibes of Ledeni Park in King Tomislav Square by watching the skaters, sipping on warm beverages and dancing under the wintery sky.
European Square
- Reason to visit: gastronomy section, beautiful Christmas décor, festive Christmas stalls, and musical shows in the evenings
- Cost: (0-$$) free entry + price of food, beverages and souvenirs
A few blocks away from the main square, you’ll find another fairytale Advent location at European Square. With the cathedral in the distance, this downtown location is popular for the pleasant aesthetic its illuminates during the holidays.
Here you’ll find musical shows in the evenings ranging from electro-acoustic to pop and more. The music here is geared toward the younger crowd, while the music at Zrinjevac Park features covers of holiday classics.
Cherish the decor by local artists, indulge in traditional Croatian foods like Turopolje zlevanka, or štrukli found amongst the expansive gastronomy section. Or try the abundance of distinct types of mulled wine (red or white) and brandies, some exclusively from local wineries.
Zrinjevac Park
- Reason to visit: gastronomy section, music pavilion, tiny festive stalls and musical shows every evening
- Cost: (0-$$) free entry + price of food, beverages and souvenirs
Overflowing with cheery light displays and tucked in away in a lush green park, Zrinjevac Park takes the prize as my favorite natural wonderland at the Advent Christmas market. Both lanterns and twinkle lights brighten the night sky, while the uplifting music sets the mood.
Beside the amazing light display, here you’ll find an old pavilion decorated for the holidays. Every evening during Advent, different live musical shows take place at this pavilion, showcasing holiday classics.
Not to mention, there’s several tiny stalls surrounding the pavilion selling a plethora of artisanal items, tasty meals, Christmas cookies and more. In fact, a short walk from Zrinjevac Park will put you right in the giant hub of the gastronomy section of the market.
In particular, this gastronomy area offers the most diverse dishes. It serves vegan sausages (beyond meat), sweet potatoes fries, gluten-free breads, and various others food choices for those traveling with food allergies.
Grič Tunnel
- Reason to visit: a magical tunnel decorated with Christmassy themes
- Cost: free
Found in the city center, this pedestrian tunnel called Grič Tunnel turns into a Christmas wonderland during Advent in Zagreb. When Evan and I were visiting, the theme was a Gingerbread land, with beautifully decorated Gingerbread houses and drool worthy fake candy.
Originally, the historic Grič Tunnel was used as a bomb shelter during WWII. Sitting quietly under the Grič neighborhood, this enchanting tunnel brings thousands of visitors annually to witness the majestic and unparalleled Christmas display through a part of the tunnel.
It’s hands-down one of the most unique Christmas market attractions I’ve seen in other Christmas markets in Eastern Europe and European Christmas markets around the globe. Plus, at the end there’s a perfect spot for a family or couple camo.
St. Mark’s Church
- Reason to visit: 13th century church, lightening ceremony,
- Cost: free
Famous for its highly detailed artwork on its roof top, St. Mark’s Church is a cultural monument posited in the “Upper town” within Zagreb. Situated in St. Marks Square, this historic church dates back to the 13th century as a parish church for the old city of Zagreb.
Historically the parish has undergone many alternations due to fires and earthquakes. The original structure had Gothic roots, with other Croatian sculptors adding to its outstanding architecture over decades and centuries. Nowadays, the parish contains an elegant enameled tile roof symbolizing two main components — “Triune Croatian Kingdom” and the “Coats of arms of Zagreb“.
In particular, the Triune Croatian Kingdom represents Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia, which is located to the left. Meanwhile, the coats of arms of Zagreb is to the right.
St. Mark’s church is just minutes away from European Square and Ban Jelacic Square. During Advent, the city hosts a lightening ceremony in front of the church, where an acapella groups rings in the start of Advent through traditional and classic carols or songs.
The ceremony last for about an hour as the acapella group begins in front of the church, then leisurely walks to other points in Upper Town stopping to light the major lanterns found within Upper Town.
Klovicevim Dvorima
- Reason to visit: best viewpoint for overlooking the cityscape
- Cost:(0-$$) free + cost of food and drinks
When traveling to Zagreb Advent, Klovicevim Dvorima offers the most exquisite view of both the city and the elegant cathedral. In fact, this view spot is so extremely well-known that the city created an photo display to further entertain everyone. Each year the display changes to match Advent theme.
Although anytime is ideal for snapping a quick picture here while overlooking the cathedral, the best time for a photo is in the morning (to avoid crowds) or in the early evening (right before dusk) to capture the sun kissing the cathedral.
After your photo op, head further down the Klovicevim Dvorima area to meander through the convivial wooden stalls and spot other picturesque backdrops. Take your time as there’s an abundance of jubilant scene backgrounds to choose from.
Clutch and sip a hot mulled wine from the stalls after taking an amble stroll around, or snatch a bit to eat. Here you’ll find stops for both food and drinks offering sausages or brats, sweet treats for vegetarians and toasty beverages.
Straosso
- Reason to visit: multiple viewpoints of the city, places to sit, cable car
- Cost: free + cost of drinks, or cable car ride
Straosso, Caffe Matos and Klovicevim Dvorima are all in close proximity to each other. Although Klovicevim Dvorima features the best cityscape lookout points, Straosso offers some additional views in comparison.
In particular, you’ll find unique angles of the city while strolling through this area and ideal pit stops for soaking in the breathtaking ambiance. There’s also festive stalls offerings drinks to accompany your scenic views.
Lastly, Straosso features a cable car that runs straight to the main street in Zagreb, so you can venture more through markets.
Caffe de Matos
- Reason to visit: festive light décor, cozy atmosphere, warm beverages, tasty food stalls
- Cost: (0-$$) free entry + cost of food, drinks, souvenirs
Caffe Matos features some prime spots with gorgeous backdrops for a photo op. Brimming with a snug milieu composed of exuberant and sprightly décor, this section is the vibrant heartstrings of Advent in Zagreb.
Shoestring lights overhang throughout this charming area, with eccentric yet Christmassy color scheme as tourist slowly cruise through admiring the work of art. Lookout for vintage bikes spray painted hues of gold or red, dangling lights, and the optimal Christmas market travel snacks to enjoy.
Similarly to other areas, you’ll find hearty local sausages and warm delectable desserts such as uštipke, a greasy and satisfying dough ball that’s been deep-fried and topped with either powdered sugar or chocolate. European Square has a wide-array of stalls serving uštipke.
While I haven’t found a gluten-free and dairy-free option, there other sweet snacks to indulge in throughout the market.
Additional ways to enjoy Advent in Zagreb
Jolly Christmas Tram
- Reason to visit: dazzling Christmas tram that rides around town with Santa Clause, Mrs. Clause and friends
- Cost: 25 HRK
- Hours: 10am – 12pm and 4pm – 7pm
Watch out as the Jolly Christmas Tram flies gracefully up and down the streets of Zagreb. Hop on board, as Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus and their little helpers of fairies and elves welcome you onto the Advent Christmas tram.
Not only are there Christmassy characters present on the tram, the tram is also delicately decorated for the holiday. Stay bundled as you embark on a 30 minute ride around the town exploring festive lights brimming with holiday cheer.
Tram pick ups begin at Praška Street and Ban Jelačić Square. While tickets are available for purchase at Petrićeva Street in the ZET shop. Prices are about $5 (25 HRK).
Keep in mind, the train does not run on December 25th or January 1st.
Museums
- Reason to visit: dazzling Christmas tram that rides around town with Santa Clause, Mrs. Clause and friends
- Cost: $-$$
- Museums: Archeological Museum, Mimara Museum, Zagreb City Museum, Museum of Illusions, Museum of Broken Relationships, Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, Museum of Contemporary Art
If winter in Croatia seems a tad cold, consider breaking your Christmas market holiday up with some indoor activities. Zagreb has a wide range of interesting museums featuring history, archeology, and art. There’s even a museum dedicated to broken relationships!
A museum ardent about broken relationships, count me in! As human beings, we’ve all been there. The Museum of Broken Relationships premise is a giant collection of art pieces, followed by explanation of what happened during the tragic break-up, then displayed in entertaining exhibit.
While this museum covers the heartrending emotions break ups can cause, it also exposes the comical and pleasant ones too. Some other museums to consider are the — Archeological Museum, Mimara Museum, Zagreb City Museum, Museum of Illusions.
Tkalčićeva Street
- Reason to visit: most romantic streets in the city, amazing restaurants, live music, cozy vibes, night life
- Cost: (0-$$) depends on where you eat or drink
Lined with amiable colorful houses, as well as restaurants with outdoor dining areas spilling into the streets, Tkalčićeva Street is a restaurant haven. While Advent in Zagreb brings thousands of tourist annually, this street is where you’ll find the locals headed to grab a bite to eat, warm up with coffee, or relishing the night away.
When Evan and I first stumbled across this street, instantly we felt the romantic vibes protruding through the pores of this delightful street. During winter, bright lights are strung throughout this street for a cozy milieu while people leisurely stroll through deciding on an appetizing restaurant option beyond the enticing food found at the holiday market.
Tkalčićeva Street is an excellent choice to sit down, rest and refuel after wandering through the Christmas markets in Zagreb.
Places to visit during your time in Zagreb
Day trip to Plitvice Lake National Park
Emerald lakes, gushing waters, and a forest generously coated in snow. If a white wonderland and outdoor adventures are a must on your bucketlist for Christmas activities, a visit to Plitvice Lake National Park is essential. With winter being the park’s off season, expect to be fully immersed in Croatia’s dazzling wilderness with epic photos and the promise of no photo bombers in sight.
Known as the largest and oldest national park in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes is an easy 2 hour day trip from Zagreb. This UNESCO site features a unique lake system, with 16 different lakes, and 4 hiking trails to explore.
Stay warm as you roam the boardwalks winding through the park, awestruck by the natural winter beauty. Revel in the mighty viewpoints overlooking the lakes such as the Veliki Slap postcard view, or other aerial cliffs near the Proscanko Lake.
Read also: Guide to Visiting Plitvice Lake National Park in Winter
Day trip to Karlovac
Situated in central Croatia lies a charming town called Karlovac. Famous for its rich history and architecture, this town features an Austrian defensive outpost dated back to the 16th century.
Used by the Austrians to protect themselves from the Ottoman empire, this outpost was likely created as a defensive tactic including the natural defenses of the terrain such as the rivers of the Korana and Kupa.
Nowadays, this inland town, Karlovac, is trafficked heavily by tourist and locals for its lush green parks, historic outpost, and dazzling riverfronts. In addition, the old town the citadel still contains remnants of the defensive system parameters that once created a star with six points.
A quick 45 minute day trip south of Zagreb will place you right at the cities entrance.
Winter Tips for Advent in Zagreb
Remember to wear layers if you’re visiting Advent in Zagreb, or exploring the mighty Plitvice Lake National Park. Winter is quite chilly, so consider practicing these wellness tips when traveling to ensure a healthy and rejuvenating trip.
- Dress appropriately. It does get cold in Zagreb, so make sure to pack a winter coat, hiking boots (for Plitvice Lakes), and layers
- Have a wellness plan. Holiday travel during cold weather can also bring mild colds, and other sickness. Make sure you maintain your wellness habits when traveling to keep your body feeling healthy. Here’s my go-to wellness checklist, quotes about wellness and essential oil guide for travel.
- Bring cash. Many booths do except cards, but using cash is faster.
- Have fun and travel slow! Take your time planning, but once you arrive, enjoy the small moments, and don’t feel like you have to achieve everything on your bucket list.
- Stay hydrated by packing a reusable water bottle, or by purchasing one on arrival to help you stay healthy and well during your winter holiday.
Resources for winter travel in Europe
- Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Winter Guide
- Fairytale Christmas Markets in Eastern Europe
- How to Boost Your Wellness When Traveling + Easy Tips
- How to travel with food allergies in Europe
- What it’s Like Train Traveling in Europe
Traveling With Pain + 7 Simple Pain Management Tips To Help
Wow Zagreb Christmas looks amazing! I love any European Christmas markets and the Zagreb one looks incredible. What beautiful holiday vibes!
Thanks Kate! Me too, the Christmas markets in Europe are truly magical. Hope you enjoyed the Christmas season.
Wow! Croatia looks so magical during Christmastime. I would’ve never thought that there were Christmas markets there. Now, this is on my bucket list thanks you both! 🙂
It really is magical, hope you enjoyed your holidays Taylor!
Zagreb looks beautiful during the holiday season! I visited in January so just missed out on all of this.
Shoot, well I hope you had a lovely trip! Were you able to participate in the New Years celebration in Zagreb?
I haven’t visited Croatia yet but I would love to go! Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes look fantastic! We usually see those places in summer and rarely in winter so it’s great to see some photos!
I highly recommend it! And thanks, do you know what season you’d prefer to visit during?
Advent in Zagreb looks absolutely magical! I definitely wouldn’t have thought of Croatia as a Christmas destination but it looks amazing! The markets look incredible and I love the innovative transformation of Grič Tunnel! I like to visit a European city in the run up to Christmas for a short break so I’m adding Zagreb to the list! Thanks for the great guide!
So happy you enjoyed the guide Hannah and I hope you’re able to visit one day! It really is magical 🙂
I completely agree with you, the tunnel is so creative. It honestly felt like we were transported to a gingerbread house.
While I am not normally a big fan of winter, your photos and options make me actually want to visit Zagreb in the cold.
Hahaha just stay near the mulled wine and hot coco stalls 😉
Looks like a wonderful place to spend Christmas!
It really is Lynne! Hope you had a lovely Christmas.
Gooorgeous!
The Christmas markets, food and architecture all make me excited to explore Croatia. Although as we’ve been locked down again for the last month, I do worry seeing photos of the crowds (I guess those are from previous years!?) I can’t wait for covid-19 vaccines so we go back to normal life like that!
The day trip to Plitvice Lake National Park looks perfect too. What a winter wonderland. <3
Thanks! Yeah, this was from last year. And same here–hopefully markets will open up in 2021.
I’ve been to Croatia and love Zagreb. But never been during the winter . Would love to go to a Christmas Market. Seems like so many fun things to see and do. Maybe I can plan ahead for next year’s.
If you LOVE Christmas, I highly recommend! Just make sure to bundle up 🙂
Tram rides with Santa, pedestrian bridge turned Christmas scene! This all sounds amazing. Thank you for sharing some seasonal inspiration!
Thanks and Happy Holidays Molly!