Croatia is often associated with sun-soaked beaches and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. But for us, the story began somewhere completely different – in the capital, Zagreb.
Long before we explored the coastal towns of Dalmatia, we drove all the way from Riga to Zagreb. It was our first introduction to Croatia — and the place that quietly sparked our curiosity about the country.
Looking back, Zagreb isn’t just a starting point. It’s a destination in its own right – especially for couples who want to combine culture, atmosphere, and a slower pace before heading towards the coast.
Our first impression was unexpectedly positive. Zagreb felt distinctly Central European – elegant, calm, and beautifully structured. The well-preserved old town blends seamlessly into newer residential areas, while the Sava River gently divides the city into its historic and modern halves.
Why Visit Zagreb as a Couple?
Zagreb offers a completely different side of Croatia – one that many travellers overlook.
Instead of beaches and crowds, you’ll find:
- Elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture
- Walkable streets and leafy squares
- A relaxed, local atmosphere
- Cafés perfect for slow mornings together
It’s the kind of city where you don’t rush from landmark to landmark – you simply enjoy being there.
Zagreb is also a practical hub for travel. The main train and bus stations are located close to the city centre, making it easy to continue your journey. On one of our trips, we travelled by bus towards Istria – a longer journey, but comfortable and surprisingly enjoyable. When travelling as a couple, time tends to pass differently – slower, more relaxed, and often more memorable.
A Short Introduction to Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia, with a population of just under 800,000 people. Its history dates back to at least the 13th century, when it gained importance following the Tatar invasions.
Today, Zagreb blends:
- Historic Upper Town charm
- Lively Lower Town boulevards
- Modern urban life
It feels more Central European than Mediterranean – which makes it a refreshing contrast to the Adriatic coast.
Getting to Zagreb (And Why It’s Easy)
Zagreb is one of the easiest Croatian cities to reach, making it ideal for a couples’ getaway or the starting point of a longer trip.
- The airport is just 15 km from the city centre
- Transfer options include:
- Airport shuttle bus (~€5)
- Local bus (cheaper but slower)
- Taxi or rideshare
Unlike many major European capitals, Zagreb Airport is relatively calm and easy to navigate – a small but meaningful detail after a long journey.
Zagreb as the Start of a Croatia Road Trip
This is where Zagreb truly stands out.
While many travellers head straight to the coast, starting your trip here allows you to:
- Ease into your journey
- Adjust to the pace and climate
- Explore inland Croatia before the Adriatic
From Zagreb, you can easily continue towards:
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- The Istria peninsula
- The Dalmatian coast
- Dubrovnik
After our first night, we drove to Plitvice Lakes – one of Croatia’s most impressive natural sights. A simple tip: leave early. There’s a lot to explore, and arriving late means missing part of the experience. The drive takes just over two hours in good conditions.
👉 To find out more, read our Croatia road trip post
Where to Stay in Zagreb
Zagreb offers a wide range of accommodation options for couples:
- Budget apartments from €40–60
- Boutique stays in the city centre
- Higher-end hotels for a more romantic stay
Staying slightly outside the centre often means:
- Better value
- Quieter evenings
But if you’re visiting for a short trip, a central location makes exploring much easier.
When to Visit Zagreb
Zagreb has a more continental climate than coastal Croatia:
- Summer: Warm, sometimes above 30°C
- Autumn: Atmospheric, but often rainy
- Winter: Cold, with snow and Christmas markets
- Spring: Fresh, green, and ideal for walking
For couples, late spring and early autumn offer the best balance between weather and crowd levels.
Is Zagreb Worth Visiting?
Yes – especially if you’re planning a broader Croatia itinerary.
Zagreb may not have the dramatic coastline of Dubrovnik or the beaches of Split, but it offers something equally valuable:
- A calmer introduction to the country
- A more local, less tourist-driven experience
- A natural starting point for a road trip
For us, it was where everything began – and in many ways, it still feels like the right place to start.
With modern motorways connecting Zagreb to the coast, you can reach the Adriatic quickly. But taking a little time here first makes the journey feel more complete.
Read more:
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Exploring the planet together – from wild roads to quiet evenings
About the Author
The author, ainarsbl, is a Level 7 Google Local Guide, Master Reviewer and expert travel reviewer focused on scenic landscapes, UNESCO sites and meaningful couples travel experiences.