Ultimate Guide To The Zagreb Christmas Market – Advent In Zagreb, Croatia

Oh, yeah, it is the most wonderful time of the year. But, move over Vienna; the award-winning Advent in Zagreb is the best Christmas market in Europe.

Here is my best guide to the Christmas markets in Zagreb, which I visit every year.

Let me be your guide to the Croatian capital, as it is filled with food stalls, Christmas decorations, fairy lights, and live concerts, and you will see why, for three years in a row, it won the award for “Best European Christmas Market.” from the team at European Best Destinations.

While the main markets remain serving traditional Croatian dishes, new locations pop up each year across the Capital city of Croatia – so bookmark this page to stay updated about Zagreb’s Christmas market from Gornji Grad to lower town; my Advent Zagreb guide has all.

2023 Christmas Markets Zagreb, Croatia (2024 Update Coming Soon)

The Christmas holidays are fast approaching. I, for one, love this time of year. Everyone is happy and joyful, and they are spreading good vibes and a lot of love, especially those with children. Christmas is a time to spend time with family, a time to be thankful for all our blessings, and a time to take some well-deserved time off from work and school.

If you plan to jump on a plane and travel during Advent this year, Christmas in Zagreb should be at the top of your list. This is because Zagreb has won the Best Christmas Market Destination award in Europe three times now!

So, you better believe that Zagreb has spared no effort to make the Zagreb Christmas Market even better this year – let’s get to know all about Advent u Zagrebu.

Visit The Advent Zagreb Wonderland

Every December, my family and I eagerly anticipate our annual pilgrimage to the enchanting Christmas markets of Zagreb. Living in Croatia, we’ve made it a tradition to spend a few days exploring the festive nooks of the entire city, each year uncovering new delights.

Our excursions to Zagreb are a family affair. My husband and I, along with our two sons, aged 11 and 6, immerse ourselves in the vibrant holiday spirit that envelops the city.

My boys, with their ever-growing fascination for the radiant lights, the soulful music, and, of course, the food, find each corner of Zagreb a wonderland of Christmas cheer. No matter where we wander, the city’s charm never fails to amaze us with its ubiquitous festive decorations.

Last year, we stayed at the Hilton, and the year before, at the Esplanade Hotel. This time, we’re contemplating going in early January and renting an apartment to give us more room and flexibility for our longer stay and to accommodate our work needs while letting the kids have their own space.

I have a particular fondness for Advent in Zrinjevac Park and the fairy tale holiday huts. The combination of twinkling lights, an array of shopping stalls, and delicious food optionss is a treat I look forward to every year.

My husband, on the other hand, is a culinary adventurer and is particularly drawn to Fuliranje at Strossmayer Square for its diverse food choices.

And the kids? Anywhere with fairy floss is a hit for them! Extra points if they spot Santa Claus.

Zagreb In Winter

The Zagreb Christmas markets are a photographer’s paradise, with dozens of spots perfect for capturing those Christmas magic moments. Despite the crowds, we always manage to find a cozy spot to relax, sipping mulled wine and savoring the variety of treats from the food trucks.

Each visit reinforces why Zagreb’s Christmas markets are more than just a tradition for us; they are a cherished part of our family’s annual rhythm, a festive break that we look forward to all year long.

As we plan this year’s visit, the excitement builds. Where will we stay? What new delights will we discover? One thing is for sure – Zagreb during Advent is a special place, and we can’t wait to be part of it again.

This year, the Christmas Markets and advent events in Zagreb will occur from December 2, 2023, to January 7, 2024. There are various concerts, musicals, performances, workshops, and exhibitions for kids and people of all ages. Not to mention the abundance of food offered on every street corner.

There is an exhibition for everyone, and it is super-affordable, if not completely free.

Zagreb Advent Locations & Highlights

If you’ve decided to spend Christmas in Croatia and are in Zagreb, here are a few places to enjoy the Christmas festivities, including the best events with the dates and times for 2023.

Wow Meow Advent Highlights

Pet owners and their furry family members, along with everyone who enjoys the cheerful barking and love of pets, will experience a different kind of Advent this year

Activities include strolling through the city streets adorned with Christmas decorations, visiting dog-friendly museums, and socializing in pubs

• Cat caffe: A favorite spot for cat lovers and those who appreciate creative drinks, open from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Advent Wooftop Pawty: An event that is fun, educational, and pet-friendly, taking place on 02.12.2023 at the Time Out Heritage Hotel

Food ADVENTure Highlights

Relax, enjoy, and snap a few photos at spots offering a true Christmas atmosphere.

Features include wooden Advent huts, thousands of lights, wooden nutcrackers, art installations, enchanting parks, festively decorated Christmas trees, and joyous Christmas songs

• Ice Park: A magical offer with Christmas lights, perfect for creating unforgettable memories
• Sweet Zrinjevac: Known as the Home of Advent, ideal for family gatherings and friendly get-togethers
• Fooling Around – Strossmayer Square: Captivating hearts with its fun character and non-traditional approach
• EU Advent: Street food huts adorned with decorations and nutcrackers offer a rich gastronomic experience
• “Baš Naš” Advent at the Square: Ban Jelačić Square lights up with colors and interactive Christmas decorations
• Matoš & cats: Caffe de Matoš joins Lunar’s colorful cats in Masarykova Street for a festive atmosphere with music, local delicacies, and warm beverages

Brands We Use And Trust

---

Jolly Good Time Highlights

This year, the Zagreb Christmas songbook will echo throughout concert halls, churches, museums, and foyers, with music heard from balconies, streets, and city squares.

• Advent concerts of Zagreb soloists: Featuring the Zagreb Soloists, one of Croatia’s cultural treasures, on 03.12.2023 at the Ethnographic Museum
• Advent under the Lantern: Join the tradition of lighting gas lamps in Upper Town from 06.12.2023 to 22.12.2023
• Evenings with Brahms: Piano masters and a soprano singer perform Brahms at the Liszt Institute Zagreb on 03.12.2023
• Zagreb Advent Postcards: The “Vox” vocal quartet performs at Oktogon Passage on 01.12.2023
• Advent symphony of the city: Enjoy Christmas melodies by the music and art studio “Kralj” on 07.12.2023
• From Christmas Balconies to Zagreb: The Ad Gloriam brass wind ensemble performs on 03.12.2023 at The Lav Gallery balcony
• Advent concerts of the Zagreb Chamber Orchestra: Four concerts featuring talented soloists on 03.12.2023 at the Croatian Writers’ Association
• The Festival of Advent and Christmas Songs in Zagreb: Emphasizing Ukrainian music, on 08.12.2023 at the Greek Catholic co-cathedral of St. Cyril and Methodius
• Concerts of the “Ivan Filipović” Chamber Choir: A mix of sacred and Advent themes on 09.12.2023 at the Church of St. Families
• 50th anniversary of Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall: Celebrating with special programs from 28 to December 30, 2023

Culture In Advent Highlights

The Christmas spirit is felt in performances and exhibitions, emphasizing kindness, inclusion, traditional customs, and the magic of giving.

• Advent in the Zagreb City Museum: Features traditional nativity scenes as the main motif from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Advent MiniMall: Unique and nostalgic exhibitions at the Museum of Broken Relationships with special gatherings from 19.11.2023 to 17.12.2023
• Advent in Zagreb Ethnographic Museum – Sweet Saints exhibition: Centered around the chocolate St. Nicholas, from 06.12.2023 to 14.01.2024
• Tram Flash Mob: Promoting togetherness through choral singing
• Advent in the Chocolate Museum: An innovative and authentic event from 01.12.2023 to 06.12.2023

Junior Advent Highlights

Special programs are designed for children to enjoy the magic and joy of Christmas time, with activities to make them smile and share the excitement of Christmas presents and cakes.

• Backo mini express – Train Museum: A miniature magical world at the Mini Train Museum from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Craft Advent: Children’s creative workshops, choirs, performances, and photography at the Croatian Chamber of Trade from 02.12.2023 to 31.12.2023
• Advent at the Wild Heart of the City: Discover how animals at the Zagreb Zoo spend their winter from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• “Fairytales are never under the weather” – Advent in Mala Scena theater: Magical children’s theater featuring the Story Fixer from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Ice Fairy Tale: A fun and icy children’s park experience at Ribnjak Park from 16.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Advent in Zagreb Ethnographic Museum – Sweet Saints exhibition: Focus on the chocolate St. Nicholas from 06.12.2023 to 14.01.2024
• Advent in the Chocolate Museum: An innovative event at the Chocolate Museum from 01.12.2023 to 06.12.2023

Jingle All The Way Highlights

Zagreb offers interesting hidden jewels like the oldest zoo in the region, a large miniature railroad, a live Nativity scene, sports races, and unique crafts. Each attraction shares its unique vision of Christmas with visitors.

• Backo mini express – Train Museum: A miniature magical world at the Mini Train Museum from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Live Nativity Scene: An authentic Christmas season spectacle organized by the Cenacolo Community in Park Opatovina on 17.12.2023
• Advent at the Wild Heart of the City: Discover how animals at the Zagreb Zoo spend their winter from 02.12.2023 to 07.01.2024
• Zagreb Digital Nomad Very Merry: A program for digital nomads to connect and learn about Zagreb
• Zagreb Advent Run 2023: A festive and colorful race in the city center on 10.12.2023 at the Hilton Garden Inn Zagreb

Ho-Ho-Hotels Highlights

Zagreb’s hotels are embracing the holiday spirit with special accommodations and food offers.  You can enjoy special Christmas-flavored delicacies as the hotels celebrate the season of love and joy.

Hotel halls and facades will be adorned with gold, green, and red ornaments and dazzling Christmas trees, enhancing the festive atmosphere and showcasing Zagreb’s hospitality.

Hotels to check out (and sleep in!) are:

1. Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
2. Hilton Garden Inn Hotel
3. Hotel Jägerhorn
4. Timeout Heritage Hotel
5. Hotel International
6. The Westin Zagreb
7. Sheraton Zagreb Hotel
8. Zonar Zagreb

Advent Décor Highlights

Fairytale, snow-covered Historicist Art Nouveau buildings in the city center and parks adorned with festive lights and Christmas ornaments. Stroll through the city center to discover Christmas trees, nutcrackers, Nativity scenes, and more symbols of Christmas.

• Kaleidoscope: The main city square features the largest Christmas tree, inviting gatherings and celebrations from 2.12. to 30.12., and on 24.12​
• Mažuranić Ball: An open-air ball under crystal chandeliers with classical music, from 15.12. to 31.12., and on 24.12 and 31.12
• Grand Big Christmas: Oversized Christmas ornament sculptures in King Petar Svačić Square, from 15.12. to 31.12., and on 24.12 and 31.12​
• Polar Dream: Grič Tunnel inspired by the aurora borealis, from 2.12.2023 to 7.1.2024, with special hours on 24.12, 31.12, 25.12, 26.12, 1.1, and 7.1​
• Moon Garden: A magical experience in Ribnjak Park, from 2.12.2023 to 7.1.2024​
• Ice Fairy Tale: A park transformed into an icy fairy tale led by the Snow Queen, from 2.12.2023 to 7.1.2024​
• Nutcrackers: Croatian National Theater square with art, lights, and oversized Nutcrackers, from 2.12.2023 to 7.1.2024​
• Tree In Oktogon: The Oktogon passage features a kaleidoscope-themed Christmas tree​

Other Advent In Zagreb Highlights We Have Loved Each Year

Ledeni Park – Ice Rink Park At King Tomislav Square

Adults and kids of all ages go crazy over the ice park set up at King Tomislav Square. Although there is a plethora of stuff to do during Zagreb this Christmas, this might be the absolute star attraction.

An otherwise quiet park, Tomislav Square gets transformed into one giant ice skating arena for the winter holidays. A dazzling show of twinkling lights surrounds you as you slide your way across and around the ice skating rink.

Christmas music floats through the air while mulled wine and freshly prepared food scents tingle your nostrils. On the sidelines, you will find many cute wooden houses that offer warm drinks, local foods, and traditional Croatian sweets.

Winter Park

Head to Tuđmanac Park to treat your whole family to a city view on the Ferris wheel, a brand new feature to this year’s Advent program. Besides an unforgettable ride, hop on the merry-go-rounds, go down the ice slide, enjoy an incredible selection of gastronomic treats, and watch various theatrical, musical, and live performances. 

It’s the perfect place to meet up with friends for merriment and casual time together!

Advent In Zrinjevac Park

Zrinjevac is, by far, one of my favorite parks in Zagreb. It is a lovely little park right in the middle of the city, minutes away from the central Ban Josip Jelačić Square, surrounded by lots of timeworn, towering pine trees. Benches offer a very cozy and romantic feel. It is a great place to sit, relax, and watch the world go by.

This park transforms into something extraordinary and even more beautiful during the celebrations of Christmas in Zagreb.

Bright lights decorate all 220 trees, while many cozy wooden houses line the walking areas of the park. Each one offers its own traditional Croatian specialty, from handmade souvenirs and unique Christmas ornaments to local arts, specialty foods, wines, and sweet delicacies.

There is an old musical pavilion in the middle of the park, where some cultural event occurs every night. This includes musicals, traditional dances, children’s performances, choirs singing Christmas classics, and much more.

If anything, Advent in Zrinjevac is the coziest and most homey-feeling place to sip on a steamy cup of mulled wine and sample traditional Croatian Christmas snacks. It’s like enjoying Christmas with hundreds of strangers around dozens of Christmas trees, one big, happy family spending time together.

Christmas Tale On Ban Jelačić Square

Regardless of the time of year, something always happens in Ban Jelacic Square, Zagreb’s main square. But it becomes even more special during the Christmas Advent season.

For one, on December 2, a large Advent wreath is put up around the Manduševac Fountain every year. This happening attracts thousands of people who take pictures or sit and soak up the Christmas atmosphere.

This central square is one of the focal points to experience Advent in Zagreb, characterized by imaginative scenes, decorations, and ornaments. You’ll find that here if you’re looking for a fairy tale feel!

A giant Christmas tree is placed near the “clock” with traditional Zagreb heart decorations. In the middle of the square, you will find a large stage where many concerts and dance performances occur each night. Visitors will also enjoy the treats offered at one of many wooden houses, such as traditional delicatessens, mulled wine, sausages, treats, and souvenirs.

If you’re sticking around until New Year’s Eve in Zagreb, this is also the largest space in the city to celebrate kicking off 2024.

Advent On European Square

Situated mere steps from Ban Jelačić Square, pedestrian European Square is somewhat less traditional and more “urban.” Some would say it’s a bit more formal, although that statement must be taken with a huge grain of salt. Advent on European Square involves various concerts, film screenings, and art exhibits spread out throughout December.

Of course, plenty of delicious mulled wine and food keeps you fueled all evening. Not surprisingly, this is a much-favored meeting point for young creative people this time of year.

Strossmayer Promenade (West)

Charming wooden huts, the warming scents of traditional dishes, favorite Christmas music tunes, and sparkly Christmas trees bring the spirit of Advent to life along Strossmayer Promenade. Eat, slow dance, and fill your heart with the Christmas spirit, then head to the square or wander to the street’s eastern side for more fun (see below)!

Fuliranje – Fooling Around At Strossmayer Square

“Fuliranje,” or just simply “Fooling Around,” is one of the first and best Advent events in Zagreb. It is simply walking around the city, singing, dancing, talking to, and getting to know strangers while having a great time. You will enjoy lots of great food, treats, drinks, shops, fun photo booths, concerts, and much more.

The Fooling Around event takes place at Strossmayer Square, in the very heart of the city, between Tomislav Square and Zrinjevac. During the Zagreb Advent festivities, this particular area becomes “Strossmartre” after the charming Montmartre neighborhood in Paris. From the Strossmayer Promenade, you can enjoy amazing views of the city, which is especially magical when all is lit up in December.

This part of Advent in Zagreb involves some of the best Croatian chefs presenting their culinary art on the street and sharing their life and food philosophy with you.

There’s also a distinct musical aspect to this. At a sizeable open-air disco, music will be dedicated to the disco culture and big music influencers of the second half of the 20th century. Over the past half-decade or so, over 500 concerts, music performances, and DJ gigs have taken place.

When spending the Christmas holidays in Zagreb, please go and check it out. It’s arguably the most “Zagreb” of all Advent events in the city. My advice is simple: Be Fun. Have Fun. Goof Around. Fool Around. Be Jolly.

This even extends throughout Advent, from December 2 – January 7.

Fooling Around At Oleander Terrace, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

Another excellent location for a fooling around the event has been set, where Michelin-star street food will be available.

Led by award-winning chefs, this exceptional gastro experience will be brought to the terrace of the prestigious Esplanade Zagreb Hotel by local restaurants: Esplanade Zagreb, Nebo by Deni Srdoč StreetStyle, The Meat by Nenad Komes, Institut za kobasice by Mate Janković, Balon, Taika, Restač, Beg’s Plant-Based Street Food, Jingle Bells, and Rakijarnica.

Accompanied by live music, DJ beats, children’s programs, artistic programs, concerts, and more, it’s the perfect location to dance, drink, eat, and be merry!

Advent In The Tunnel – Gric Tunnel

This is one of the Zagreb Christmas markets’ most interesting and exciting features. A former World War II tunnel, the Grič Tunnel transforms into a winter wonderland for the holiday season. While it’s still a relatively discrete and less-known attraction, it’s totally amazing.

Grič Park

Grič Park will be transformed into a nocturnal dreamland during Advent, with enchanting nighttime sounds, meditative musical compositions, and tranquil light displays. The peace and quiet of the season is celebrated in this natural space, so let the beauty sweep you up as you take a nighttime stroll here. 

Marić Passage Advent

Although relatively small, the Marić Passage is a neat little attraction during Christmas in Zagreb. Running between Gajeva Street and Praška Street in the heart of the city, this tunnel is created by intertwined tree branches lit up by thousands of LED lights. It’s a beautiful way to walk to and from other Christmas highlights in the city.

Advent In The Sisters Baković Passage

Here, you can walk into an old film studio and feel like you are a Christmas movie star. Additionally, this is a fantastic place to watch Christmas films for all ages, played by the Europa Cinema.

Live Nativity Scene

The Live Nativity Scene at the Zagreb Cathedral is another Advent in Zagreb highlight to look for. A real-life display of baby Jesus in his crib, the manger, people of Bethlehem, farm animals, shepherds, and three wise men. This is a special kind of experience that will take you back to the time of Jesus’ birth and make you remember what Christmas is all about.

Zagreb Advent Cultural & Musical Events

Croatian National Theatre

Zagreb’s most beautiful theatre is the setting for many classic plays and operas, including La Boheme, The Magic Flute, and The Nutcracker. This a fantastic place to be for a memorable Christmas concert.

This majestic building is always decorated with various light displays, bringing the wonder and joy of the season both inside and outside the building.

Culinary Delights To Enjoy At Advent In Zagreb + Surrounds

Here are some ideas on what to eat, you can wash it all down with a hot chocolate or a mulled wine. ☕🍷

• Stuffed Turkey with Mlinci: a traditional dish often enjoyed during the holidays
• Paprenjaci (Pepper Cookies): a famous Zagreb souvenir, these cookies have a history linked to the spice trade
• Vanilin Kiflice (Vanilla Crescents): a famous Christmas pastry
• Sarma with Mashed Potatoes: cabbage rolls filled with minced meat
• Makovnjača (Poppy Seed Roll): a traditional sweet bread with poppy seed filling, often enjoyed during breakfast
• Krofne (Croatian Donuts): delicious doughnuts often filled with jam or chocolate
• Kuhano Vino (Mulled Wine): warm and spiced red wine, perfect for cold winter evenings
• Fritule: small, deep-fried doughnut-like pastries, often sprinkled with powdered sugar and flavored with citrus zest or brandy
• Knedle: dumplings filled with plums or apricots, often served with a sprinkling of breadcrumbs and sugar

---

Zagreb Winter Festival & What To Wear To Zagreb Christmas Markets

A Zagreb winter is cold. There can be many snowy days and slippery streets. So warm coats and good walking shoes are a must.

You’ll need your best clothes in Zagreb; the ladies (and men!) dress up. Take your basic European Christmas market clothing and jazz it up some. You’ll need to pack the following:

• A waterproof warm coat – remember it maybe snowing
• Waterproof & comfortable shoes or boots
• Dress in layers so you can peel off your coat in warm cafes and restaurants. I put my kids in a thermal base layer and wear stockings under my jeans for extra warmth
• Hat, scarf, and gloves
• A bag to collect your purchases – lots of stalls are set up to pick up those last-minute Christmas gifts

How To Get To The Christmas Markets In Zagreb

If traveling internationally, the best way to get to Zagreb is to fly into Zagreb International Airport. Be sure to organize your private transfer from Zagreb Airport to Zagreb in advance to avoid those pesky taxi cues in the middle of winter. The bonus is that you will have a professional driver greet you upon arrival at the airport and help you with your luggage. This way, you’ll be on your way to your accommodation in no time.

Suppose you’re planning to spend more time in Europe and are thinking of going to other famous Christmas markets, such as the Vienna Christmas markets; this list of European Christmas Markets is just what you need.

That said, if you do not have the time to cross borders, then there are other great Christmas Markets in Croatia, including those in Zadar, Split, Dubrovnik, and Rijeka, that you can share in more Croatian Christmas traditions.

FAQs

What is the history of the Zagreb Christmas Market?

The Zagreb Christmas Market, known as Advent in Zagreb, is a festive event with a modern history that began in 2002. While Christmas markets have been a tradition in other parts of Europe for centuries, Zagreb’s version has rapidly gained recognition since it was first established. It wasn’t until 2010 that the market started to become a significant event, and by 2015, it was awarded the title of “Best Christmas Market in Europe” by European Best Destinations, which significantly boosted its popularity. The market is celebrated for its charming atmosphere, stunning decorations, and unique Croatian holiday traditions, making it one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.

When does Advent in Zagreb take place?

Advent in Zagreb typically begins in late November and runs through early January. The festivities usually start on the first Advent Sunday, aligning with the Christian liturgical calendar. The event spans several weeks, offering visitors a range of activities, performances, and celebrations, culminating in the New Year festivities. As the dates can vary slightly each year, it’s recommended to check the official Zagreb tourism website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What can visitors expect to find at the Zagreb Christmas Market?

Visitors to the Zagreb Christmas Market can expect a delightful array of attractions. The market features numerous wooden stalls offering handmade crafts, traditional Croatian foods, and mulled wine. Festive music, dance performances, and various entertainment options are abundant. The market is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a magical atmosphere. A highlight of the market is the giant Christmas tree in Ban Jelačić Square, which provides a picturesque setting for photos.

Are there any special events during Advent in Zagreb?

Yes, Advent in Zagreb is filled with special events. These include live concerts by local and international artists, theatrical performances, and cultural exhibitions. One of the most anticipated events is the Advent Parade, which celebrates Croatia’s rich cultural heritage. There are also workshops for children and families, where they can engage in traditional crafts and create their own Christmas decorations. The city is adorned with dazzling light displays, adding to the festive ambiance.

What traditional foods should I try at the Zagreb Christmas Market?

The Zagreb Christmas Market is a culinary delight, offering a variety of traditional Croatian foods. Some must-try dishes include kulen (a spicy sausage), štrukli (a baked cheese pastry), and fritule (small, fried dough balls, similar to doughnuts). Additionally, you can find sarma (cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat), roasted chestnuts, and the ever-popular mulled wine (kuhano vino) to warm up during the chilly winter nights.

Do you see now why I say that it is one of the best Christmas destinations? Now that you know all about the Christmas markets in Zagreb, will we see you there? If not this year, maybe next? Either way, Merry Christmas!

More info: https://www.adventzagreb.hr/