IN FOCUS ZAGREB
When it comes to city breaks, Croatia's capital is usually overlooked in favour of Dubrovnik. Yet for clients looking beyond cities such as Prague and Vienna, Zagreb is a great suggestion, says Howard Carr
new low-cost fl ights and an increasing range of attractions. While much of Zagreb shares the grand
I
architecture typical of central Europe, it can point to something that cities such as Prague, Vienna and Budapest can’t match: a relaxed, Mediterranean-type atmosphere.
Getting around the city is simple. Its
compact centre means most attractions are within walking distance of the main hotels and the capital’s highlights can easily be explored in 48 hours. It makes for a great short-break
destination at any time of year. In summer, Zagreb’s parks and squares play host to a variety of outdoor festivals; in winter, they make way for traditional Christmas markets.
t may not be as well known in the UK as its Czech and Austrian rivals but Zagreb's star is rising on the back of
Most sightseers head for the Upper
Town fi rst. This is the most historic part of Zagreb, with cobbled streets, baroque architecture and remnants of ancient city walls. The focal point is St Mark’s Square
– often dubbed the symbolic heart of Croatia because it is surrounded by important buildings such as the national parliament and several palaces. While the elegant twin spires of
Zagreb Cathedral dominate the city skyline, it is St Mark’s Church that is the most photographed because of its multicoloured tiled roof featuring the coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia. Quaint streets lined with tempting little
shops and cosy bars and restaurants lead off the square to vantage points with fi ne views over the city.
One of the best vistas is from the top of the 700-year-old Lotrscak Tower. A
Unlike elsewhere in Croatia, Zagreb has
set out to make itself affordable, with most of its new hotels in the mid-price range
cannon is fi red from the tower at noon every day, a tradition that dates back to 1877 when it was a means of co- ordinating the city’s bell-ringers. The Upper and Lower towns are linked
by the Stone Gate. The only remaining ancient city gate, it now houses a shrine to the Virgin Mary.
A funicular railway provides a fun way
of getting between the two parts of the capital. At just 72 yards, it is one of the shortest stretches of track in the world. The Lower Town is the commercial heart of Zagreb, and also the place to head for culture vultures, shoppers and night owls.
Wide boulevards and tidy squares are lined with imposing, sand-coloured buildings that date back to the Austro- Hungarian Empire. Many of the city’s major museums, galleries and theatres are found along the Lenuci Horseshoe that connects eight picturesque parks and tree-lined squares. The choice ranges from the neo-
baroque Croatian National Theatre, opened by Emperor Franz Joseph in 1895, to the Museum of Contemporary Art, opened in 2009. One of the most popular city parks
with locals is Zrinjevac, with its statues, fountains, shady walks, and a bandstand
20 September/October 2011 •
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thedeal seal
The Zagreb Card gives unlimited travel on public transport and discounts at museums, restaurants and shops.
www.zagreb-
touristinfo.hr
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