One day in Zagreb, the capital of Croatia

Our two weeks trip to Croatia begins in Zagreb, the capital city.

Most of the population live in the capital city, or other coastal cities like Split and Rijeka.

Croatia is home to many interesting inventions. It is home to renowned truffles, olive oil and many interesting inventions, such as the fingerprinting system and neckties (more about this in the later part of the post).

Zagreb is divided into the “upper town” and the “lower town”.

During our one day trip in Zagreb, we explored most of the “upper town”, and here are some of the top spots we visited.

Zagreb Main Square / Ban Jelačić Square

The city’s main square, and the most happening place in Zagreb. Just a few steps away, you’ll find the Dolac Market with many stalls selling fruits, vegetables and flowers.

You can spot a sea of iconic red umbrellas, a symbol of the city’s local heritage as it was derived from their traditional folk costumes.

Cathedral of Zagreb

About 5 minutes walk away from the main square is the Cathedral of Zagreb.

The cathedral is still being rebuilt after the 5.3 magnitude earthquake that struck in 2020.

While we did not see the cathedral in all it’s glory, it’s grandneur and scale makes us stop and stare.

Saint Mark’s Church

The colourful tiles on the roof of the church are actually two coat of arms.

On the right, it represents the Zagreb coat of arms. A fortress with open gates that represents the city’s hospitality, a six pointed star representing Slavic goddess a symbol of beauty and love, and a crescent moon representing the god Leo.

On the left, it represents the Triune Kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia, and Dalmatia. The checkered section is for Croatia. The three lion heads are for Dalmatia, and the marten (animal that is like a fox/weasel) between two rivers is for Slavonia.

Fun fact: Before Croatia switched to Euro in 2023, their currency is kuna – Croatian word for marten. In the Middle Ages, marten pelts were so highly valued that they were used as a form of currency.

When I saw the tiled roof in real life, it was in so much symmetry that it looks like woven textured knit.

Lotrscak Tower

At 12 noon sharp, there will be a blank fired to mark noon, as part of the city’s tradition. It is guaranteed to make you jump if you are not expecting it!

It is also next to a funicular, apparently the world’s shortest furnicular and built in 1890s. It is not working so you need to climb up some stairs to go down.

Near the tower, there is a great spot to see panaromic views of the city, and the Zagreb Cathedral.

Nikola Tesla statue

Fun fact: Nikola Tesla was born in the village of Smiljan, which is in modern-day Croatia.

There are many streets in Croatia after his name.

Home of the Cravat (Neckties)

Neckties, or originally called cravat were invented here in Croatia.

Long before it was a fashion statement, the necktie was a symbol of longing. The tradition began with Croatian soldiers, who wore scarves tied around their necks.

It was believed that the scarves had the tears of their wife, keeping the memory of their loved ones while they were at war.

There is even a day to celebrate International Necktie Day on October 18. On this day, statues across the country are famously donned in giant red neckties to honor the invention.

Food

Our first meal in Zagreb was at a highly rated place, Vinodol.

We tried the monkfish and veal, but it fell a little flat. Compared to other meals we’ve had, these just didn’t leave a lasting impression. Perhaps our expectations were just set a little high due to the many good reviews.

Vinodol: 55€

Next city

We visited in the end of March, and the weather was surprisingly colder than expected.

I want to say that Zagreb was a good teaser for what was come come during our two weeks in Croatia, but it was not, nothing would have prepared us for experiencing the Adriatic sea.

Next up we are heading towards Istria – the largest peninsula in the Adriatic sea.