Zagreb Advent: one of Europe's most loved Christmas markets

Advent in Zagreb transforms the Croatian capital into a festive city full of lights, music and food stalls. Markets spread from the main square to parks and the Upper Town, creating a cheerful atmosphere every evening.

Fun facts

• Zagreb Advent was voted the best Christmas market in Europe for three years in a row from 2016.
• Licitar hearts, red decorated honey biscuits, are on UNESCO's intangible heritage list.
• The festival takes place across several locations rather than a single square.

What to see

• Zrinjevac Park with its lights and the old music pavilion.
• The Ice Park on King Tomislav Square.
• The Upper Town and Strossmayer Promenade with views over the city.

What to taste

• Fritule, small doughnuts dusted with sugar.
• Kuhano vino, mulled wine with spices.
• Štrukli, dough filled with cheese, baked or boiled.

What to do

• Ride the short funicular to the Upper Town.
• Join locals for fuliranje, the casual Advent social life outdoors.
• Explore the Dolac market for local products.

💡 Tip: Airport buses run to the main bus station; from there trams go to the centre. Weekends attract many visitors from nearby countries, so book accommodation early.