Zagreb’s Christmas market has earned a reputation as one of the best in Europe, consistently ranking alongside its counterparts in Vienna, Strasbourg, and Prague. From the end of November until January 7th, the city is filled with twinkling lights and holiday cheer, and the market sets up shop across various iconic streets and squares, each with its own distinct charm. Our delightful festive walking tour allows you to explore the different corners of the city and the market with a local guide, learning all about Croatian Christmas traditions along the way.
On this 3-hour private Christmas tour, you will:
- Explore Zagreb at Christmas with a local guide;
- Navigate Zagreb’s beautiful Christmas market with ease;
- Learn about the origins of the market and how it gained its reputation for being one of the best in Europe;
- Get the lowdown on Croatian holiday traditions;
- Step into the heart of the market at Ban Jelačić Square, complete with a giant Christmas tree and ice skating rink;
- Stroll down the lovely Tkalčićeva Street, lined with wooden chalets selling crafts and festive treats;
- Sample a traditional Croatian sweet pastry that’s a staple during the festive season and sip on aromatic local mulled wine;
- Admire the picturesque St. Mark’s Square all lit up;
- Take in panoramic views of the Lower Town at Strossmayer Promenade;
- Visit Zrinjevac Park and discover why it is known "Park of Music," while you enjoy the romantic lighting and festive activities.
Experience the best of Christmas in the Croatian capital on this fabulous festive walking tour that takes you on an exhilarating journey through the different parts of Zagreb’s beloved Advent Market. Your private tour begins at Ban Josip Jelačić Square, where the giant Christmas tree, twinkling lights, and bustling ice rink immediately get you into the holiday spirit. From this lively hub, your knowledgeable local guide will lead you through Zagreb’s two historic medieval settlements, Kaptol and Gradec, revealing how centuries of history have shaped the city and its traditions.
You’ll stroll along the charming streets of the Upper Town, passing the Cathedral, the city’s tallest and most iconic building, and walk down Tkalčićeva Street, where wooden chalets brim with handcrafted ornaments, festive treats, and the warmth of seasonal cheer. At the Stone Gate, the last remaining entrance to the fortified city, you will hear tales of medieval life and pause for a moment amid the flickering candles and quiet reverence. You will continue to majestic St. Mark’s Square and admire the colourful tiled roof of the church, made all the more beautiful by the twinkling Christmas lights, and pass by the Greek Catholic Co-cathedral of Saints Cyril and Methodius, learning about Zagreb’s rich tapestry of religious and cultural traditions.
Your guide will lead you to Strossmayer Promenade to enjoy panoramic views over the Lower Town, before making your way into Zrinjevac Park. Known as the “Park of Music,” this area comes alive with festive activities at this time of year, with seasonal stalls and enchanting illuminations that perfectly capture the magic of Advent. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to try fritule, the traditional Croatian Christmas pastry, paired with a cup of aromatic mulled wine, giving you a true taste of local holiday flavours.
By the time your tour draws to a close at the elegant King Tomislav Square, you’ll feel as if you have captured the essence of the city at the most wonderful time of the year. This experience brings Zagreb’s history and holiday traditions vividly to life, and is ideal for travellers eager to explore one of Europe’s most exciting Christmas markets while deepening their understanding of Croatia's unique cultural heritage.
