Zagreb Art and Culture Guide: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary

Zagreb is full of surprises, street art, quirky museums, and a laid-back, creative energy that makes you want to stay a while.

If you only have one day in the city, this inspired art itinerary will guide you through the best of Zagreb’s cool, cultural side. Think bold murals, contemporary galleries, and a few scenic stops along the way. It’s really the most perfect way to spend a day in Zagreb!

Staying longer? Check out the full two-day Zagreb art itinerary for even more unique things to do in the city. I spent four full days immersing myself in the creative scene and loved every minute of it.

Zagreb is a beautiful and walkable city with excellent public transportation. The tram system is easy to use, and tickets can be purchased at TISAK. Look for the red TISAK sign on kiosks around the city (I’ve included a photo below to show you what they look like).  

Note: This art guide is best suited for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. BUT! If you plan to do this on Saturday, you'll need to skip some things (Or be a little quicker, which is easily done) because the Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art closes at 6pm on Saturdays, and you'll want to allow yourself 2 hours to indulge.

*Always double-check current opening hours, as they may vary by season.

***FIND THE CURATED MAP AT THE END OF THIS ARTICLE!***

Funicular connecting Upper and Lower Town in Zagreb, Croatia.

Trams in Zagreb are the easiest and most scenic way to explore the city. They’re fast, frequent, and well-connected.

Look for TISAK kiosks to buy tram tickets in Zagreb, Croatia.

Taking the tram is the best way to travel around Zagreb.

Wandering through Zagreb’s charming streets, every building feels like a postcard.

Strolling through Zagreb is like stepping into a European daydream.

Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb, Croatia.

Zagreb’s city parks are filled with flowers and peaceful walking paths.

The Perfect Art Day in Zagreb, Croatia

Dolac Market and Breakfast

(7:20am) Begin at Dolac Market, Zagreb’s iconic open-air market tucked under a sea of red umbrellas. It’s a beautiful place to start your day, overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, and traditional Croatian delicacies. A must-visit if you’re looking for things to do in Zagreb in the morning, or enjoy experiencing local markets (one of my favorite things to do when I travel!)

(8am) Walk to nearby Broom 44 for breakfast (in the same square as Dolac Market). There will likely be a queue, so please plan accordingly. The menu is seasonal, the coffee is top-notch, the scrumptious pastries are freshly baked, and there are plenty of options for vegans!
🖤 Dolac Market
🕒 Open daily: 6:30am-3pm

🖤 Broom 44 @br00m44
🕒 Open Monday-Saturday: 7am-2pm, Sunday: 8am-2pm

Dolac Market and the infamous red umbrellas in Zagreb.

Breakfast at Broom 44 in Zagreb is super delicious.

Flower Market at Dolac Market in Zagreb.

Stickers in Zagreb, Croatia.

Women Life Freedom in Zagreb, Croatia.

Powerful street messages in Zagreb.

Museums and Old Town Charm

(9am) Walk through a narrow alley where the walls have been transformed by spontaneous graffiti and paste-ups. It was the biggest surprise and totally made my day! Then, climb the stairs to Love Rails to see a plethora of locks declaring people’s undying love, and take in a panoramic view of Zagreb.

This alley of street art was an absolutely wonderful surprise in Zagreb.

Street art by Mittenimwald. One of my favorite pieces in Zagreb!

How can one be a woman and not be a feminist? Zagreb street art by Lutajuca Knjiga.

Dreaming is free. Street art in Zagreb by Lutajuca Knjiga.

A surprise roll of film! Zagreb street art.

Is your heart okay? Love Rails lookout point, Zagreb, Croatia.

Love Rails has excellent views of Zagreb, Croatia.

(9:15am) The Museum of Broken Relationships is one of Zagreb’s most famous museums. It’s quirky, original, and full of heart. People donate objects along with personal stories that range from heartbreaking to hilarious. It's intimate, just you, the discarded object, and a short narrative to read up close.
🖤 The Museum of Broken Relationships @brokenships
🕒 Open daily: 9am-10pm
🎟️ Admission: 7 Euros
🔥 Hot tip: Spend a few minutes in the gift shop, and if you spot the scratchy postcards, grab a few and write to your friends. They’ll be thoroughly amused to receive one in the mail.

(10:30am) A block down the street is the colorful tiled roof of St. Mark's Church, one of Zagreb's oldest and most iconic buildings. Click a photo and head to Strossmayer Promenade, one of the most romantic and scenic viewpoints in the city. Look for red-tiled rooftops, striking spires, medieval towers, and stone walls.

Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, Croatia. A must visit!

I can attest to this! Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb.

Plastic Godzilla at the Museum of Broken Relationships.

The story of the plastic Godzilla at the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Love the unique gifts at Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb.

Inside the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb, where every object tells a love story.

Sometimes the best art in Zagreb is just the buildings themselves.

Funicular from Strossmayer Promenade in Zagreb.

The colorful tiled roof of St. Mark's Church is one of Zagreb's oldest and most iconic buildings.

Old stone and city soul, this is Zagreb on a quiet afternoon.

Gorgeous views of Zagreb from Strossmayer Promenade.

Art and Design

(11am) Trotoar Gallery is a contemporary art space with classic white walls and large windows, exhibiting both Croatian and international artists in a beautifully curated setting.
🖤 Trotoar Gallery @trotoar.gallery
🕒 Open Wednesday-Friday: 11am-7pm, Saturday: 10am-2pm (Closed Sunday-Tuesday)

(11:20am) Skip the main road and walk through the Grič Tunnel. Halfway in, take the first open right tunnel. Once you exit, go left towards Roots Bar, and your next stop is across the street. To your left is the funicular (the shortest in the world) connecting Upper and Lower Town.

(11:30am) Take Me Home is hands down the cutest shop in Zagreb! Everything inside is handmade, locally crafted, and totally gift-worthy. Think jewelry, postcards, bags, books, clothes, ceramics, magnets! It’s the perfect spot for art lovers to buy something special and support local Croatian artists!
🖤 Take Me Home Croatian Design Shop @takemehomezagreb
🕒 Open Monday-Friday: 9:30am-8pm, Saturday: 10am-3pm (Closed Sunday)

Trotoar Gallery in Zagreb, Croatia.

Entrance to the Gric Tunnel.

When you see this in the Gric Tunnel, turn right!

Street art you see when you exit Gric Tunnel in Zagreb.

When you see this, at the exit of the Gric Tunnel, turn left.

Take Me Home Croatian Design Shop in Zagreb.

Art masterpieces on cookies at Take Me Home Design Shop in Zagreb.

The cutest shop in Zageb and an excellent way to support local artists!

Mural near the exit of Gric Tunnel in Zagreb.

(12pm) Josip Račić Studio is part of the Modern Gallery and is named after the beloved Croatian artist. It’s a space dedicated to showcasing contemporary Croatian art.
🖤 The Josip Račić Studio of the Modern Gallery
🕒 Open Monday-Friday: 11am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10am-1pm

Just a few doors down, on the corner (the door past Bonita Cafe), you’ll find the entrance to the glamorous art-nouveau Oktogon passageway. Bathed in warm yellow tones that melt into the light of the atrium, it’s a stunning little surprise in the middle of the city.
🖤 Oktogon
🕒 Open 24 hours daily

One block further down the street is Everyday People by Lunar. Slaven Lunar Kosanović is a local artist from Zagreb who played a key role in shaping Croatia’s early graffiti scene. Look down to spot the colorful, playful piece, as it was painted right on the street.
🖤 ‘Everyday People’ by Lunar @slavenlunar
🕒 Open 24 hours daily

The gorgeous Oktogon passageway in Zagreb.

The entrance to Oktogon in Zagreb.

‘Everyday People’ adds a colorful touch to Zagreb streets.

‘Everyday People’ by Lunar.

Josip Racic Studio of the Modern Gallery in Zagreb.

Perfect spot for an Instagram shoot in Zagreb’s Oktogon.

Ceiling of the Oktogon in Zagreb.

Love the warm yellow glow of Oktogon in Zagreb.

Super playful street art by Lunar in Zagreb.

(12:45pm) Lunch at Zrno is a must. Everything is organic and sourced from Zrno, Croatia’s oldest organic farm. This cozy farm-to-table spot is 100% vegan and serves delicious sugar-free desserts. I ordered the macroplate and still dream about it.
🖤 Zrno @zrnobiobistro
🕒 Open Monday-Saturday: 12:30-11pm (Closed on Sunday)

(2pm) After lunch, take a 15-minute walk to the Museum of Unfinished Art, where you’re the artist. This one-of-a-kind museum encourages you to find beauty in the unfinished and create simply for the joy of it. You're invited to paint, stamp, weave, sew, trace, and play. I left with three small pieces of my own art and contributed to the museum’s collaborative works. A refreshing reminder that it’s okay not to finish everything, as long as you enjoy the process.
🖤 Museum of Unfinished Art @museum_of_unfinished_art
🕒 Open Tuesday-Friday: 11am-7pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm (Closed on Monday)
🎟️ Admission: 9 Euros

Create your own art at the Museum of Unfinished Art.

The joy is in the process at Zagreb’s Museum of Unfinished Art.

You are the artist at Zagreb’s Museum of Unfinished Art.

A space to play, stamp, and leave your mark.

Nothing needs to be finished to be beautiful at the Museum of Unfinished Art in Zagreb.

Interactive art fun at the Museum of Unfinished Art.

Collaborative abstract art at the Museum of Unfinished Art in Zagreb.

Try textile art at the Museum of Unfinished Art.

Learn how to trace perfectly at the Museum of Unfinished Art in Zagreb.

Street Art Hot Spots and Contemporary Art

Tram info: Just outside the Museum of Unfinished Art is a tram station. You can take Tram 4 from Botanički to Studentski Center, OR Trams 2 or 9 from Botanički to Vodnikova. It’s about an 8-12 minute journey.

(3:30pm) Galerija SC (Student Center) supports young artists with a focus on modern and conceptual art. It’s a very cool stop for fans of urban art in Zagreb, as the surrounding buildings are covered in murals and Zagreb street art, making the space feel like an open-air gallery. Tucked in the back, you’ll also find a small performing arts theater.
🖤 Galerija SC
🕒 Open Monday-Friday: 12pm-8pm, Saturday: 10am-1pm (Closed Sunday)

Owl by Lonac at Galerija SC in Zagreb.

Galerija SC supports young artists in Zagreb.

Excellent street art can be found at Galerija SC in Zagreb.

Nikola Tesla mural at Galerija SC in Zagreb.

Mural by Modul in Zagreb’s Galerija SC.

Galerija SC in Zagreb feels like an open-air gallery.

Galerija SC (Student Center) focuses on modern and conceptual art.

Galerija SC is cool stop for urban art in Zagreb, as the buildings are covered in murals.

Tram info: There are many ways to reach the art museum, so be sure to double-check Google, but one direct way is by taking tram 14 from Studentski Center to Muzej Suv. Umjetnosti. This tram ride will take about 30 minutes.

(5pm) Saved the best for last! The Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art is a minimalist and industrial building with large windows that allow plenty of natural light. Supported by concrete pillars, the museum floats above a mural wall, painted with works by well-known street artists, adding an urban touch.

The museum features three main floors connected by a spiral ramp, which accommodates both permanent (super excellent!) and temporary exhibitions. If you're lucky, you can exit through art! Carsten Höller's Double Slide (2009) is an immersive, permanent installation that takes you from the third floor back to ground level, providing a playful way to conclude your visit.

Before you go inside, take a moment to look for I See You by OKO (meaning 'The Eye' in Croatian). Their signature eyes and animal figures are a museum highlight! Don’t forget to check out the mural wall on the other side after you visit the museum. Allow yourself 2 hours to explore the museum before taking the tram at 7pm to the Martićeva neighborhood.
🖤 Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art @msuzagreb
🕒 Open Tuesday-Friday: 11am to 7pm, Saturday-Sunday: 11am to 6pm (Closed Monday)
🎟️ Admission: 11 Euros

Don’t miss ‘I See You’ by OKO outside the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb. It’s a favorite!

‘Double Slide’ (2009) by Carsten Höller at the Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art, because grown-ups should play too.

Exhibition at Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art in Croatia.

Thought provoking exhibition at Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art in Croatia.

‘I See You’ by OKO outside the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb.

Installation at the ticket counter inside the Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art.

We build the museum the museum builds us. Look for this stencil inside the museum.

Explore the outside of the art museum to find all the murals.

Martićeva Neighborhood – Zagreb’s Design District

Tram info: Take Tram 7 from Muzej Suv. Umjetnosti to Šubićeva

(7pm) Take the tram to Martićeva, known as Zagreb’s design district. It’s a bohemian neighborhood filled with vibrant cafes, art galleries, indie boutiques, Croatian design, bookshops, and Zagreb street art. The area comes alive at night with conversations over wine on terraces, live music, and street performances. My Airbnb was located here, and I loved the energetic atmosphere.

Walk around, have dinner, grab drinks, and enjoy a musical performance in the park alongside Mala Martićeva, a pedestrian street featuring a remarkable carpet mural by Croatian street artist Boris Bare. Inspired by the Croatian haustor, the traditional entryway in older homes is designed with floral or geometric motifs, which creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The whole neighborhood is delightful, but I especially loved the aesthetics of Program Bar and Mr. Fogg.

Program Bar is eye candy for the soul! It's warm, inviting, and delightfully eccentric, with pink chairs suspended from the ceiling and golden embellishments that radiate royal elegance. A design lover's dream and the perfect spot for a coffee pick-me-up before exploring the neighborhood. (And dear vegans, they have plant milk!)
🖤 Program Bar @program_bar
🕒 Open Monday-Friday: 7am-11pm, Saturday: 8am-11pm, Sunday: 9am-11pm
🎨 Mala Martićeva Street Art is just outside the cafe @bare.boris

Program Bar in Zagreb, Croatia is eccentric in the best way possible!

Program Bar in Zagreb radiates royal elegance.

Pink chairs suspended from the ceiling in Program Bar.

Program Bar is a design lovers dream.

Mural by Boris Bare on Mala Martićeva, Zagreb’s design district.

Mr. Fogg is a mysterious steampunk fantasy come to life. Victorian-era elegance meets futuristic mechanical marvels in a space filled with dim lighting, gleaming brass, and fantastic drinks. Every corner feels like stepping into a storybook adventure!
🖤 Mr. Fogg @bar_mr.fogg
🕒 Open daily from 7am-11pm

Mr. Fogg in Zagreb, Croatia.

Mr. Fogg is one of the coolest bars in Zagreb.

Excellent details in Mr. Fogg.

Steampunk bar and drinks in Zagreb.

Gears at Mr. Fogg in Zagreb.

Perfect aesthetic in Mr. Fogg in Zagreb.

That’s a wrap on your one-day Zagreb art adventure! From quirky galleries and contemporary art museums to colorful street murals, this itinerary covers the best cultural things to do in Zagreb. If you're planning a weekend trip or building your Croatia travel itinerary, Zagreb is a cultural destination worth exploring.

For more inspiration, don’t miss my two-day art guide for an even deeper dive into the city’s artistic side.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. I’ll do my best to help!

Have the best time ever! When you post photos, please tag me on Instagram (@in_pursuit_of_art) because I’d love to see them!

Curated Art Maps of Zagreb

This curated map pinpoints the top attractions in Zagreb for art lovers. Use it alongside the full itinerary to plan your perfect day!!
.•Art Experiences in Zagreb (black paint palette)
•Unique Places in Zagreb (maroon heart)
•Delightful Cafes (brown coffee cup)
•Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Zagreb (green leaf)

There are two maps, as I have traced the walking path for you. Part 1 ends at the entrance of Tunel Grič (follow my instructions above to exit at the correct location). Part 2 picks up at Take Me Home Design Shop. Part 3 of this Zagreb art experience uses trams.

👉 Open the map in a new window (walking part 1)
👉 👉 Open the map in a new window (walking part 2)

Here’s more information and photos, along with links to detailed Instagram posts:
Museum of Unfinished Art Program Bar Punk Rock Pink Bathroom Museum of Broken Relationships Botanicar Cafe Word on the Street Zagreb photos Karas Gallery