Zagreb with Kids

Zagreb, the charming capital of Croatia, offers an abundance of activities and attractions for families with kids. From lively parks and engaging museums to delicious eateries and convenient transportation options, Zagreb is a perfect destination for a family vacation. This comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your trip, providing recommendations on where to go, what to see, and how to navigate the city with kids.

Top Attractions and Activities for Kids in Zagreb

• Zagreb Zoo and Maksimir Park: One of the top family attractions in Zagreb is the Zagreb Zoo, situated in the picturesque Maksimir Park. The zoo houses over 275 species of animals, providing an educational and enjoyable experience for kids. Maksimir Park itself is an idyllic location for picnics, leisurely walks, and immersing oneself in nature, with its lakes, wooded areas, and well-maintained trails.
• Museum of Illusions: The Museum of Illusions is a fantastic destination for both kids and adults. This interactive museum offers a wide range of optical illusions, puzzles, and exhibits that challenge the mind and captivate visitors. It’s a great way to spend a few hours, and kids will particularly enjoy the hands-on nature of the displays.
• Lotrščak Tower: A visit to the Lotrščak Tower is both thrilling and educational. Every day at noon, a cannon is fired from the tower, a tradition dating back to the 19th century. The loud bang may startle younger or more sensitive kids, so it’s advisable to prepare them in advance. For those who enjoy climbing, the tower offers breathtaking views of Zagreb from its upper floors.
• Technical Museum Nikola Tesla: The Technical Museum Nikola Tesla is another excellent choice for families. Named after the renowned inventor, the museum showcases fascinating exhibits on technology, science, and space exploration. Kids will particularly be delighted by the planetarium and the demonstrations of Tesla’s inventions.

Family-Friendly Parks and Outdoor Spaces

• Bundek Park: Bundek Park is a fantastic destination for families, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and a lake where you can rent paddle boats. The park is well-maintained and provides a peaceful environment for parents and kids to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.
• King Tomislav Square: During the winter months, King Tomislav Square transforms into a enchanting ice skating rink as part of the Advent in Zagreb festivities. The square is adorned with beautiful decorations, creating a magical atmosphere that kids will adore.
• Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden in Zagreb is a serene oasis within the city, offering a variety of plant species and meticulously manicured gardens. It’s an ideal location for a leisurely stroll and a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about different plants and ecosystems.

Best Museums for Kids

• Croatian Museum of Naive Art: The Croatian Museum of Naive Art displays vibrant and whimsical artworks that appeal to children’s imaginations. The colorful and simple style of naive art is especially captivating for young visitors.
• Children’s Museum and Amusement Park Mala Kula: The Children’s Museum and Amusement Park Mala Kula offers interactive exhibits and games designed specifically for kids. It is a fantastic place for kids to learn through play and engage in hands-on activities.

Family-Friendly Dining in Zagreb

Try the delicious ice cream at Vincek, Zagreb’s most famous ice cream shop located on Ilica Street. With a wide variety of gelato flavors, both kids and adults will be delighted.

• ReUnion Restaurant at Canopy by Hilton: The ReUnion Restaurant at Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre is a great dining option for families. They offer a discounted buffet lunch on Sundays with a wide range of dishes. What’s more, there is a supervised playroom where kids can burn off energy after their meal.
• Good Food and Pingvin Sandwiches: For a casual meal, Good Food and Pingvin Sandwiches on Nikole Tesle Street 7 are excellent choices. They offer quick and tasty options like sandwiches and salads, perfect for a relaxed family lunch or dinner.

Best Time to Visit

The spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are the best times to visit Zagreb with kids. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, making it easier to explore the city. Winter is also a magical time to visit due to the famous Advent in Zagreb, a Christmas festival filled with lights, markets, and festive activities.

Where to Stay

For families, it is recommended to stay within walking distance of the main square, Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića. This central location provides convenient access to many of the city’s attractions and public transportation. 

Family-Friendly Hotels

• Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre: This centrally located hotel offers spacious rooms and a Sunday brunch with a supervised playroom for kids.
• Apartment in Central Zagreb: This apartment includes two double beds, a living area, and a kitchen, making it ideal for families who prefer to cook some meals themselves.

Sample 4-Day Itinerary for Families

Day 1: Exploring Central Zagreb

Begin your day at Trg Bana Josipa Jelačića, the central square and a great meeting point. From here, you can hop on the free excursion train that departs every 40 minutes on weekends. This train takes you on a circular route around the city, providing a fun and easy way to see the sights with young kids.

Visit Maksimir Park and Zagreb Zoo. Maksimir Park has expansive green spaces, lakes, and walking trails, perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The zoo, located within the park, is home to over 275 species of animals, offering an educational and entertaining experience for kids.

For casual and kid-friendly options like sandwiches and salads, dine at Good Food on ul. Nikole Tesle 7. Alternatively, try Pingvin Sandwiches in the same area for a quick and tasty meal.

Day 2: Cultural Exploration

Explore Lotrščak Tower, located in the Upper Town. Inform younger kids about the daily noon cannon firing, which can be loud. Climb to the top of the tower for spectacular views of Zagreb.

Visit the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art or the Museum of Illusions, both engaging for kids. The Naïve Art Museum showcases vibrant and colorful works that can captivate young imaginations, while the Museum of Illusions offers interactive exhibits that are fun and educational.

Indulge in gelato at Vincek, one of Zagreb’s best spots. Vincek Slasticarnica on Ilica 18 offers a wide variety of flavors, while Vis-a-Vis by Vincek on Tomiceva ul 2 provides a calmer atmosphere with a lovely shaded terrace.

Day 3: Adventurous Outings

Visit the Zagreb Funicular to easily reach the Upper Town from the Lower Town. It’s a short ride but exciting for kids. From the Upper Town, walk to the Zagreb City Museum, which offers interesting exhibits on the city’s history.

Head to Jarun Lake, located a bit outside the city center but worth the trip. The lake area is great for outdoor activities such as swimming, paddle boating, and biking. There are also playgrounds and picnic areas, making it perfect for a family day out.

Enjoy delicious Greek street food at El Greco on ul Ivana Tkalcica 30. Their Greek Salad is a favorite, featuring fresh and ripe tomatoes.

Day 4: Relax and Play

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café. While many Zagreb cafes mainly serve coffee and drinks, you can find some that offer light breakfast options. Cogito Coffee on Varsavska ul. 11 is highly recommended for its excellent coffee, although it does not serve food.

Spend the afternoon at the Children’s Museum and Amusement Park Mala Kula. This museum offers interactive exhibits and games designed to educate and entertain kids.

Wrap up your day with a visit to King Tomislav Square, especially during the Advent season. The square features a large ice rink and beautiful Christmas decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that kids will love.

Transportation Tips

Getting Around

• Walking: Most of Zagreb’s city center is easily accessible on foot.
• Uber: A convenient and affordable option for transportation, especially when traveling with luggage.Zagreb Tram: The tram system in Zagreb is extensive and easy to use. To ride, you can buy single-use tickets at red Tisak kiosks. While adults need tickets, kids usually ride for free until the age of 7.

Here’s how you can use the Zagreb Tram:

• Trams are numbered, and at many stations, you’ll find lit signs displaying the arrival times of the next tram. To determine which tram to take, you can also use Google Maps.
• Remember to validate your ticket in the yellow boxes located at the front and back of the tram.

Tips for tourists

• If you plan to dine at upscale restaurants near the main square, it’s advisable to make reservations in advance. This way, you can ensure you have a table.
• The weather in Zagreb can vary, so it’s a good idea to pack accordingly. Layering your clothing is particularly recommended, especially during the spring and fall seasons.
• Zagreb is a pedestrian-friendly city, and having a stroller can be very useful if you’re traveling with younger kids.