I’m no authority in what places are the must-dos. But I can tell you which are the ones I went to. I’ll sprinkle in some basic information along the way and tell you about my experience. Your trip will be different but I thought I’d share mine.

Even though Zagreb is the capital and most populated city of Croatia, most people would not recommend the place as the must visit of the country. Everyone I speak to refers to Split or Dubrovnik and move on to highlight the gorgeous coastlines associated with them. And let’s not forget, the resurgence Game of Thrones helped with Dubrovnik’s popularity. However, I can assure you. Zagreb can hold its own.

There was a four day weekend in the Netherlands at the end of May 2022. And I decided to spend my time in Croatia’s capital. And despite the erratic weather during my visit, the city managed to quench my wanderlust for the duration of my holiday. Whether indoor or outdoor activities are one’s preference (or the only remaining choice), I never ran out of activities.

Side note: For places I visited or a story I have from Dubrovnik, you can visit these links: places and story.

Finally, here are five places I visited in Zagreb:

Museum of Broken Relationships

Would you believe that the Museum of Broken Relationships is the first privately owned museum in Zagreb? And that the Croatian Ministry of Culture took no interest in helping the founders find a location to house its exhibition in. As with any great breakup or tale of redemption, the Museum of Broken Relationships was awarded Europe’s most innovative museum in 2011. 

Not everyone has an appreciation for history. Nor are all our lives filled with art. But at one point, we experience heartbreak. And that’s what attracted me to the exhibition. The museum speaks to me. I can easily relate to the subject matter.

Some displays are creative. Others are funny, though downright depressing. But the curation proves how universal the experience of heartbreak is. And how anyone can turn lemons into lemonades. 

I generally don’t make sweeping statements. But, this is by far one of my favourite and one of the best museums I’ve been to. 

Museum of Hangovers

Even though museums are showcased prominently in this piece, I actually don’t enjoy visiting them as a pastime. But one characteristic of those located in Zagreb had was inclusivity. Maybe it’s my insecurity. But a lot of the museums I see end up feeling high brow and exclusive. Whereas, my ordinary life felt as relevant and as important when I came to the Museum of Broken Relationships or Museum of Hangovers.

I digress and I just made an entire monologue about my feelings regarding museums. You can trust me. I’m not drunk. But the stories in the museum are. 

The impact is not as high. Many of the stories aren’t dramatic. But they can elicit a laugh.

Not everyone drinks. And not everyone is fan of people going off the rails. But as a person who had his fair share of alcohol, and I can get rowdy on multiple occasions, I found the subject matter finally getting the spotlight overdue. 

Museum of Illusions

When it rains, a lot of museums end up on my list.

I have been to a similar attraction in Singapore called the Trick Eye Museum. Hence, my overall sentiment is less than ecstatic and borders more on okay. But if you are up for fun and a lot of photo opportunities, the Museum of Illusions can be a treat.

There are exhibits where my size appears different than what I actually am. And also a never-ending tunnel that aims to hypnotize. Most people spend their time in these two. I ended up devoting my energy to puzzles I can never seem to solve.

Tunnel Gric

Tunnel Gric is an interesting landmark because it’s been a witness to two key historical moments – the Second World War in the 1940s and Croatia’s struggle for independence in the 1990s. Nowadays, the path is a tourist attraction that can be used to go from the Upper Town of Zagreb to the City Center (and vice versa).

While the outside exterior looks exquisitely designed, the interior is plain. An energy of its dark past looms over. The intended purpose of the structure wasn’t aesthetic. It was completely functional. However, the place isn’t void of historical markers. Original graffitis from the days of independence can be found inside.

Park Bundec

I visited Park Bundec in May 2022. I make this disclaimer because I saw none of the paddle boats, kayaks, music festivals or concerts in the park, things that the place is apparently known for.

While located centrally, one of its propositions is how different its vibe is from the rest of the city. And to an extent, those assertions are correct. The area is relaxed and quiet. Not a lot of people were there. I was even able to meditate.

I did not have this park on my list of places to visit. But I had time to spare while waiting for my friend’s arrival. And I assume the same will be true for people who spend a week or two in Zagreb. Then, I think Park Bundec will make sense.

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The trip happened in May 2022.