Winter wonderland in Zagreb – activities that will warm your soul

It compensates for the low temperatures and lack of daylight with a diverse offer in which everyone can find something to their taste, from recreationists to gourmets and art lovers.

Although snow is often absent in Zagreb, there are some winter activities that can be enjoyed by both locals and visitors regardless of the number on the thermometer.

Cultural treats

Culture in Zagreb never sleeps, so even during the winter months, many institutions offer programs in the sphere of music, theater, history, fine arts, film and others. In addition to exhibitions and theater performances, the beloved Long Night of Museums stands out in particular, when museums across the country open their doors to visitors, as well as concerts by major international and domestic musical names. Of course, in this period of the year, it comes as a bonus that cultural institutions are always nice and warm, even when the weather outside is frightful!

Photo credit: Lice Grada

Walks in the nature

The thing that makes winter in Zagreb special is the fact that you can really expect any kind of weather – the above-average temperatures and sunny days will make you feel as if it is spring, then suddenly the streets may become covered in snow. But there is no weather forecast that will take the men and women of Zagreb away from their nature. Whether it's a walk along the Sava or one of the many parks, Zagreb's nature is full of beauty and peace at any time of the year, including in winter.

Gastronomic delicacies

It is known that in winter we more often reach for the so-called comfort food, food that not only pleases our stomachs, but also all our senses, giving us some consolation and a special warm feeling. The streets of Zagreb are packed with restaurants, bistros and fast food locations that are real winter refreshment points. Here you will find everything from fine dining restaurants to fast food specialties, and every bite will be a soothing winter treat for your palate and soul.

Photo credit: Lice Grada

Terraces of cafes in the winter edition

The local culture of drinking coffee in cafes goes through its winter edition from December to March, when the terraces of catering facilities invite passers-by to rest under the warmth of the heaters and warm their hands with a cup of hot drink while watching the city illuminated by the lights. Mulled wine, hot chocolate, hot cocoa or tea – these are the perfect drinks for colder winter days that go best with a view of the city streets.

Field trip to Sljeme

A favorite destination of locals throughout the year, this mountain above Zagreb also offers numerous winter activities that everyone can enjoy. There are many activities – from regular hiking to playful sledding for children, from walking to skiing. Of course, we must not forget numerous catering establishments that offer the necessary refreshment for these frosty winter months. Sljeme is always a good idea, especially in winter!

Ice skating

Is there a more traditional and elegant winter activity than ice skating? Rosy smiling cheeks gently gliding on the crystal ice, and rhythmic music playing in the background – in Zagreb you will find skating locations that look as if they have fallen out of a movie! You don't have to worry about equipment because you can rent skates on the spot, just put on warm clothes and gloves – the temperature on the ice is always low, so you certainly don't want anything to get in the way of the fun!

Photo credit: Lice Grada

Good fun, cheerful mood, full stomachs and real enjoyment in the winter months – this is the ruddy face of Zagreb during the coldest months of the year!