Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia, a relaxed Central European city of about 770,000 people where Habsburg-era streets, a medieval hilltop Upper Town, and a lively cafe culture sit side by side. It is known for the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Dolac market, the Tkalčićeva street terraces, Mirogoj cemetery, and one of Europe's best-loved Advent festivals.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Zagreb Zoo
Zoo inside Maksimir Park with about 275 species, including sea lions, giraffes and lions; shaded paths suit all ages.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Maksimir Park
Zagreb's largest park, with lakes, meadows, playgrounds and cycling paths; free entry.
Duration: 2-4 hours
Technical Museum Nikola Tesla
Hands-on science museum with a planetarium, a mine replica, vehicles and demonstrations, popular with school-age children.
Duration: 2 hours
Museum of Illusions
Interactive museum with optical illusions, tilted rooms and photo opportunities; a quick, funny stop for kids and teens.
Duration: 1 hour
Zagreb Funicular
One of the world's shortest public funiculars, a 66-metre ride between the Lower Town and the Upper Town, in service since 1893.
Duration: 15 minutes
Jarun Lake
Lakeside recreation area with beaches, playgrounds, paddling, cycling and rowing; swimming in summer.
Duration: Half day
Medvednica and Sljeme Gondola
Cable car from the city's north edge to Sljeme peak in Medvednica Nature Park, with views, hiking and a sledding hill in winter.
Duration: Half day
Museum of Broken Relationships
Quirky museum of heartbreak objects with personal stories; most suitable for teens and adults.
Duration: 1 hour
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Hotel Dubrovnik
Central hotel on Trg bana Jelačića with family rooms, a short walk to Dolac and the funicular.
Family features: Family rooms, central location, breakfast buffet
Hotel Sheraton Zagreb
Full-service hotel near the railway station and Zrinjevac park with family rooms and an indoor pool.
Family features: Family rooms, pool, near parks
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Croatian restaurants welcome children; most offer a children's menu (dječji jelovnik) or half portions
Palačinke (crepes) and pizza are safe bets for picky eaters; štrukli are mild and family friendly
Cafes and gelaterias on Bogovićeva and Tkalčićeva are relaxed about kids; many have high chairs
Dolac market is a good stop for fresh fruit and picnic supplies
Tap water is safe to drink
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Children up to age 6 ride ZET trams and buses free; older children and teens may need a ticket (check ZET for the current age rules)
The Zagreb Card is not always good value for families; check the child pricing before buying
The Upper Town has cobblestones and steps; a baby carrier is easier than a stroller
Trams and buses have space for strollers; the funicular is stroller friendly
Pharmacies (ljekarna) are widely available; Zagreb emergency number is 112 and children's hospital emergency is at the Klaićeva Children's Hospital (Klaićeva ulica 16)