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The Best Way to Get Around Zagreb (According to Someone Who Actually Lived There)
Let me start with a confession: I lived in Zagreb for 33 years and still got lost in Novi Zagreb’s labyrinthine blocks more than once. But that’s the charm, isn’t it? Zagreb isn’t huge, but it is layered. And when someone asks me about the best way to get around Zagreb, I smile, take a deep breath, and say: it depends on your shoes, your mood, and whether your tram karma is good that day.
Walking: My Forever Favorite
Zagreb is a city best discovered with your feet. No rush. No real agenda. Just follow the smell of coffee and the sound of church bells. I used to walk from my flat near Maksimir all the way downtown just to “clear my head” – which obviously meant stopping at three bakeries along the way.
When people say Zagreb is walkable, they aren’t kidding. The entire center is compact, charming, and full of unexpected little corners: murals, vintage bookstores, hidden courtyards that feel like secret gardens. Walking really is the best way to get around Zagreb if you want to absorb its soul, not just check off tourist sites.
Trams: Blue, Nostalgic, Slightly Grumpy
Ah, the trams. Blue, clunky, and utterly essential. I could recognize Line 6 by the sound of its brakes alone. With 15 daytime lines and 4 nighttime ones, trams are the lifeblood of the city. They go everywhere that matters – and a few places that don’t, but hey, that’s part of the adventure.
I can’t count how many books I finished between Črnomerec and Borongaj. And how many times I missed my stop because I was too busy people-watching. Want to see Zagreb like a local? Buy a ticket, stamp it (or risk the wrath of the kontrola!), and enjoy the ride.
If you’re curious, I even filmed one of these rides – from Trg bana Jelačića to Krajiska Street – on my YouTube channel Holidays in Croatia. Spoiler: it’s hypnotic.
Trams are without doubt the best way to get around Zagreb when your legs are tired but your curiosity isn’t.
Buses: The Unsung Heroes
Trams get all the love, but buses deserve their moment too. If you’re heading to places like Sljeme, Jarun, or Bundek, buses are your ride. And honestly, they’re reliable. I used to take Bus 203 up to Cmrok for a walk in the woods when I needed to escape the noise of the city.
If your plans go beyond the tram grid, hopping on a bus is often the best way to get around Zagreb, especially if you’re heading for nature or the outer neighborhoods. Bonus: you’ll usually get a seat.
Taxis & Ride Apps: Use Them Wisely
Let’s keep it real – Zagreb taxis used to be… unpredictable. Some still are. That’s why apps like Uber and Bolt changed the game. I use them when I’m carrying heavy gear or running late (okay, always running late). Prices are fair, and there’s no “oops my meter is broken” drama.
For comfort and zero brain effort, this is sometimes the best way to get around Zagreb, especially late at night or during one of those classic Croatian thunderstorms that come out of nowhere.
Biking: When You’re Feeling Brave (or Adventurous)
For the eco-conscious traveler, cycling is a fantastic option. Zagreb is slowly becoming more bike-friendly. The city now has more bike lanes, and the Nextbike rental system is super easy to use. I’ve pedaled through the “Lenuci Horseshoe”, along the Sava river, even up to Mirogoj (regret: immediate). If you’re comfortable on two wheels and don’t mind the occasional rogue driver or bumpy curb, cycling can be the best way to get around Zagreb – especially in spring or early autumn when the weather’s just right.
Funicular: A Short but Sweet Ride
The funicular is hilarious in its brevity. It’s only 66 meters long and takes less than a minute – but it’s iconic. I take it when I’m feeling fancy, tired, or just nostalgic. It connects Lower and Upper Town and saves you from huffing up a very steep street. The view at the top is worth every second.
It might not be the most practical option, but if we’re talking whimsy, the funicular is the best way to get around Zagreb. Or at least 66 meters of it. (Wikipedia)
Is There a Metro in Zagreb? Not Yet
Nope. And honestly, we don’t need one. Zagreb’s surface transport is so solid, I never missed having an underground. The tram system is visible, social, and makes it easy to see where you’re going. In my book, that makes it the best way to get around Zagreb – no tunnels needed.
A Few Pro Tips From a Local
- Avoid unmarked taxis – they still exist. Use Bolt or Uber.
- Mind the rush hours – trams and buses get packed.
- Validate your tickets or face the infamous kontrola stare-down.
- Carry coins – the machines don’t always love cards.
- Embrace the café culture – when in doubt, pause for a macchiato.
Lesser-Known Facts About Zagreb
Now that we’ve covered the practicalities, let’s delve into some intriguing tidbits about Zagreb that you might not know:
- A City of Museums: Zagreb boasts more museums per square foot than any other city in the world! From the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships to the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, there’s something for every curiosity.
- Green Oasis: The city is adorned with numerous parks and green spaces. The Lenuci Horseshoe, a U-shaped system of city squares, offers lush greenery and is perfect for leisurely strolls.
- A Literary Legacy: Zagreb has a rich literary history and is recognized as a UNESCO City of Literature. Book lovers will delight in the many bookstores and literary events throughout the year.
- Mysterious Tunnels: Beneath the city’s streets lies the Grič Tunnel, a World War II-era passageway that’s now open to the public for tours and events. It’s a hidden gem that offers a unique perspective on Zagreb’s history.
Tips for Navigating Zagreb Like a Pro
To make the most of your Zagreb adventure, here are some handy tips:
- Get a Zagreb Card: This tourist card offers unlimited travel on public transport and discounts on various attractions. It’s a great way to save money and simplify your travels.
- Learn Basic Croatian Phrases: While many locals speak English, learning a few Croatian greetings can enhance your interactions and show respect for the local culture.
- Stay Hydrated: Zagreb’s tap water is clean and safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated as you explore.
- Embrace the Café Culture: Take time to relax in one of the many outdoor cafés. It’s a quintessential Zagreb experience and a perfect way to people-watch.
Your Zagreb Adventure Awaits
Zagreb isn’t just a city you visit – it’s a city you walk into, tram across, bike through, and bus around. After 33 years of zigzagging its boulevards and backstreets, I can say this: the best way to get around Zagreb is with your eyes open, your heart ready, and maybe a pastry in hand.
Let me know if you’re coming – I’ll tell you which tram to take and where to get the best štrukli.
