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Expat Exchange - The Insider's Guide to Zagreb
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The Insider's Guide to Zagreb

By Betsy Burlingame

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Summary: Discover the charm of Zagreb with our guide to the city's top attractions, culinary hotspots, and vibrant nightlife. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we'll also help you find the best recreational activities to enjoy, and offer advice on making lasting connections with the friendly locals.

Welcome to Zagreb! If you're planning to move to Zagreb, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Zagreb has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Zagreb.

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, is a vibrant city that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. One of the most iconic landmarks is the Zagreb Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The Lotrš?ak Tower, a 13th-century fortified tower, offers panoramic views of the city. The Museum of Broken Relationships, a unique museum that displays mementos from failed relationships, is another must-visit. The city's main square, Ban Jela?i? Square, is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to people-watch. The historic Upper Town, or Gornji Grad, is home to the Croatian Parliament and the beautiful St. Mark's Church. The Mirogoj Cemetery, considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe, is also worth a visit. For art lovers, the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art are must-sees. The Zagreb City Museum and the Archaeological Museum offer fascinating insights into the city's history.

Zagreb's restaurant and nightlife scene is diverse and vibrant, offering something for everyone. The city is known for its excellent food, and there are many great restaurants to choose from. One of the most popular is Vinodol, which serves traditional Croatian cuisine in a beautiful setting. Another favorite is Trilogija, known for its innovative dishes and extensive wine list. For seafood lovers, Ribice i tri to?kice is a must-visit. The bustling Tkalciceva Street is lined with bars and cafes, making it a popular spot for nightlife. History Pub offers a unique blend of history and beer, while Swanky Monkey Garden is a trendy bar with a great outdoor area. For a more upscale experience, the Hemingway Lounge Bar is a stylish and sophisticated choice. The city also has a thriving club scene, with popular venues including the opulent Johann Franck and the underground club, Masters.

Recreational activities in Zagreb are as diverse as the city itself. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city offers numerous parks and green spaces. Maksimir Park, the city's largest and oldest public park, is a great place for walking, picnicking, and bird watching. The nearby Zagreb Zoo is also a popular attraction. Medvednica, a nature park just north of the city, offers hiking and biking trails, as well as the medieval Medvedgrad fortress. For those interested in sports, the city has several stadiums and sports centers, including the Maksimir Stadium, home to the Dinamo Zagreb football team, and the Dom Sportova, which hosts various sporting events and concerts. Lake Jarun, located in the southwest of the city, is a popular spot for rowing, sailing, and swimming. In the winter, the nearby Sljeme ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding. For a more relaxed experience, the Botanical Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Zagreb: Making the Most of Life and Connections

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


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