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While most people who visit Croatia head straight to the coast (and the Croatian coast is incredibly beautiful), the capital city, Zagreb, is also worth visiting. Anyone visiting Croatia should indeed visit the coast, but also spare a couple of days to also see Zagreb and see how different the vibe is inland to the coastal regions.

Zagreb is famous for its old city, café vibe, and unusual museums. If one has the time while in Croatia, take a few days to visit Slovenia and its picturesque Lake Bled. Slovenia is one of the most charming and green countries in the world with part of the country extending into the breathing European Alps.

Why Zagreb Is Worth Seeing For Backpackers

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia and sits on the Sava River by the slopes of the Medvednica mountain. Zagreb has a rich history hailing from Roman times and today is known for its museums, entertainment events, and high quality of living.

  • Population: Approx. 1 Million

Croatia is a safe and fascinating Balkan country. Today it is part of the European Union but is not yet part of the Schengen Area or the Eurozone.

  • Safety: Zagreb Is A Safe City To Visit

Zagreb is an opportunity to see the less touristic side of Croatia and is ideal for backpackers. Zagreb is a safe city to visit and is a city worth visiting. It has become a popular tourist destination and has some of the country's quirkiest museums.

  • Famous For: Cafe Culture and Quirky Museums

Like many European cities, it has a great dining and café culture. One benefit of visiting Zagreb is that it is much safer than many other cities in the European Union.

Zagreb is a place where one soaks in the vibe of the street life enjoying a beer or coffee on the streets and then attending some of its year-round events (like food stalls, concerts, and pop-up markets).

Related: Everything You Can Do in Croatia, Depending on Which Month You Visit

What To See And Expect In Zagreb

The best way to explore Zagreb is by strolling around it - the city is just made for strolling. The city is divided into two main sections - the Gornji Grad (Upper Town) and the Donji Grad (Lower Town).

  • Sections: Upper Town and Lower Town

Take A Guided Walking Tour Through The Upper Town/Gornji Grad

In the Gornji Grad or Upper Town, one will see the old part of the city up on a plateau that's home to the city's cathedral and parliament building. Here one will see the red roofs and cobblestones of the old city with plenty of churches.

In Donji Grad or Lower Town, visitors will see a more modern side of the city with odd museums. The architecture of this part is a mash-up of secessionist, neo-baroque, and art deco buildings. One fun thing to do is seek out the imaginative murals by local street artists on otherwise ugly-bland concrete walls.

Some usual museums to explore in Zagreb are the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Mushroom Museum, the Museum of Illusions, the Hangover Museum, the Chocolate Museum, and others.

Related: Why Slovenia Is Cheaper Than Switzerland, But Just As Good

Zagreb Accommodation For Backpackers

Hostelworld.com lists out the best hostels for backpackers in Zagreb - and there's a decent selection to choose from. One of the most popular and highest-rated hostels in Zagreb is Swanky Mint.

  • Rating On Hostelworld.com: 9.2/10 Superb

At Swanky Mint, backpackers are welcomed by an energetic team of young travelers, and is a place where guests hang out at the adjoining bar and meet people from all around the world.

The building that houses Swanky Min was formerly a dry cleaning and fabric-dyeing factory from the late 19th century. Today it is one of the most highly acclaimed hostels in the country. It is located on the verge of the old town of Zagreb and offers a mix of dorms, private rooms, and even studio apartments.

  • Standard Private Room: $66.00 (Shared Bathroom)
  • Four-Bed Apartment: $100.00
  • 11 Bed Mixed Dorm: $26.00
  • 4 Bed Mixed Dorm: $36.00

Guests can also enjoy its common room, terraces, seasonal pool, and kitchen.

  • Swimming Pool: Closes 23rd September Yearly

While there, pop into their Swanky Monkey Garden boasting one of the best cocktail bars in Zagreb. They host popular DJs and regular parties - entrance is free.