Zagreb might not have the beachy buzz of Croatia’s coastal cities, but give it just one day, and you’ll discover a laid-back, café-loving capital packed with history, quirky museums, and charming souvenirs. Whether you’re on a stopover or starting a Balkan adventure, here’s what to do in Zagreb in 12 hours — and what to take home.

1. Wake up with coffee on Tkalčićeva Street ☕

Time: 8:30 AM

Where: Otto & Frank or Express Bar

Start your day like a true Zagreber — with a strong coffee and some people-watching. Tkalčićeva is a colorful pedestrian street lined with terraces, and it’s the city’s favorite morning hangout.

Souvenir Tip: Pick up a bag of locally roasted Croatian coffee beans — or a branded “Zagreb café culture” mug if you’re into memorabilia.

2. Walk up to the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) 🏰

Time: 9:30 AM

Where: Take the funicular or walk the steps

Zagreb’s Upper Town is where the cobblestones get steeper and the views get better. Check out St. Mark’s Church with its colorful tiled roof, then stroll past old gas lamps and medieval gates.

Souvenir Tip: Many local shops sell miniature replicas of St. Mark’s roof or painted tiles. Also look for traditional Croatian lacework and handmade crafts.

3. Duck into the Museum of Broken Relationships 💔

Time: 10:30 AM

Where: Ćirilometodska Street

One of Zagreb’s most famous — and unusual — museums, it’s filled with donated items from failed relationships, each with a short, poignant (or hilarious) story. Surprisingly moving and 100% worth a visit.

Souvenir Tip: The gift shop sells funny, poetic, and bizarre breakup-themed items — plus some of the best postcards in town.

4. Enjoy a mid-morning snack at Dolac Market 🍅

Time: 11:30 AM

Where: Behind Ban Jelačić Square

This buzzing open-air market is where locals buy their produce, cheese, and flowers. Try some sir i vrhnje (fresh cheese and cream), or grab a fruit snack for your wanderings.

Souvenir Tip: Buy paprenjak (spiced biscuits), ajvar (pepper relish), or a small bottle of rakija (fruit brandy) — all locally made.

5. Lunchtime in Lower Town 🍽️

Time: 1:00 PM

Where: Bistro Apetit or Vinodol

Settle in for a relaxed lunch in Donji Grad. Try a local dish like štrukli (cheese-filled pastry) or grilled fish with seasonal veg. Bonus points for sitting on a leafy terrace.

Souvenir Tip: Ask your waiter about local wines — Croatia has some hidden gems, especially white wines from the north.

6. Walk it off in Zrinjevac Park 🌳

Time: 2:30 PM

Take a gentle stroll through the Green Horseshoe — a series of parks curving through central Zagreb. Zrinjevac is perfect for a post-lunch breather, with fountains, flowers, and musicians often playing nearby.

7. Visit the Art Pavilion or Croatian Museum of Naïve Art 🎨

Time: 3:30 PM

If you’re into art, Zagreb has a strong scene. The Croatian Museum of Naïve Art is unique, colorful, and easy to digest in under an hour. Great for travelers who like offbeat culture in bite-sized chunks.

Souvenir Tip: The museum shop has locally designed prints, postcards, and art books that aren’t touristy but still very “Zagreb.”

8. End with a sunset view and a souvenir sweep 🌅

Time: 5:00 PM

Where: Strossmayer Promenade

This scenic walkway above the city is great for a relaxed sunset. You’ll often find local artists and musicians adding to the vibe. Browse stalls selling handmade jewelry, prints, and wooden toys.

What to Take Home from Zagreb 🛍️

Pressed for time? Swing by a souvenir shop or grab goodies from the market before you go. Some favorites include:

• Paprenjak biscuits (traditional Croatian spice cookies)
• Local wines or rakija (plum brandy, anyone?)
• Croatian lace or handcrafted ceramics
• Miniature St. Mark’s Church roof tiles
• Museum of Broken Relationships merch
• Naïve art prints or local design goods

For a more comprehensive list check out our top 10 souvenir ideas

Final Thoughts

Twelve hours in Zagreb is just enough to fall for its relaxed rhythm and rich personality. From quirky museums to shady parks and market snacks, the city is full of surprises that feel a little off the beaten path — in the best possible way. If you’ve only got a day in Zagreb, make it count. And maybe grab a frog-shaped bottle of rakija while you’re at it. 😉