Zagreb Christmas Market Croatia 2024

Zagreb Christmas Market Croatia 2024 | 2025

Zagreb Christmas Market or Advent u Zagreb is a city-wide event, celebrated right through the New year to the Epiphany, until the 6th of January each year.

• Stay close to the main market near Ban Jelacic Square. Stay at the “Exceptional” rated Hotel Capital, just steps from the market featuring elegant rooms and delicious breakfast options. 

Christmas in Zagreb

• Next Edition: Saturday November 30th, 2024 – Tuesday January 7th, 2025.
• Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, takes Christmas very seriously, and the entire city becomes one spectacular Christmas Market with over 25 different markets dotted across the city.
• The city has won the “Best Christmas” market several years in a row and continues to innovate with new ideas each year.
• Wooden chalets line the city centre streets, selling everything from Knitted Scarves and handmade artisan gifts to sweet almonds and spectacular Christmas tree decorations.
• Each year the Christmas celebrations have a different Theme. The 2022 theme is toys – find one of dozens of augmented reality machines throughout the city, which take you back to the golden days of the city’s Biserka toy factory. 

The Lights

• The entire city is lit up, literally like a Christmas Tree. The town resembles a Hallmark movie; everything twinkles as squares fill up with Christmas Trees.
• Take in all the city’s lights on the Merry Christmas Tram, home to special holiday guests, including Father Christmas, fairies, elves and Mrs Calus.

The Markets

• Each Christmas market in Zagreb has its own unique theme and atmosphere. Many of the most spectacular markets are located in the oldest part of the city, Gornji Grad, situated on a hill above Ban Josip Jelacic Square, the main hub of the town.
• Zagreb’s famous three parks host some of the main markets throughout December, while the changing Strossmayer Promenade is transformed with Christmas lights and offers beautiful city views.

Ban Jelačić Square

• In the heart of the city centre, the Ban Jelačić Square is simply unmissable. The market is filled with huts selling handicrafts, souvenirs and delicious food and drink.
• The market also features two stages hosting several different festive performances each night with special events during the weekend.

King Tomislav Square

• Home to the city’s famous Ice Park, King Tomislav Square is home to one of the biggest open-air skating rinks in Europe.
• Grab your skates and enjoy a few laps around the rink or take in some of the free entertainment and shows while sipping some mulled wine.
• Enjoy a luxurious Christmas stay in Zagreb at the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel, rated “Superb” by guests, offering timeless elegance and excellent service.

Zrinjevac

• Zrinjevac park features more than 200 different Christmas trees covered in twinkling lights, transforming the garden into a magical Wonderland.
• The market is famous for its traditional authentic local produce, and hosts live music and shows.
• Enjoy delicious Zagreb specialities, including krpice sa zeljem (pasta with cabbage) and apple strudel at food stalls beside the bandstand.

Fuliranje

• The market at Fuliranje is a foodie-lovers dream come true! Croatia’s best restaurants come together and serve up local and international dishes.
• Enjoy Sarma (traditional cabbage rolls) or Fritule (Croatia’s play on doughnut holes).

Strossmayer Promenade

• Head to the Medieval Uppertown and take in the best city views while exploring four different markets with a hipster vibe.
• Each year the markets have a different theme and are some of the most instagrammeable spots in the city.
• The market runs just over 500 metres along the promenade serving everything from mulled wine and beer to spicy sausages and delicious roast chestnuts.
• Stay in your very own luxury apartment just steps from the market at the Dežman Luxury Center, featuring spacious suites and excellent location.

Tunnel Grič

• Experience something truly unique at Tunnel Grič. Once a WWII bomb shelter, this underground pedestrian Tunnel is now a tourist attraction.
• The Tunnel features several holiday exhibitions during the Advent period and is one of many in an underground network running beneath the upper town.

Gay Zagreb at Christmas

• Zagreb’s vibrant gay scene may be smaller than other European capitals, but what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in character and warmth.
• Croatia’s vibrant capital city, which combines historical charm with a lively LGBTQ+ scene. Whether you’re looking for cultural hotspots, cozy cafés, or a night out on the town, Zagreb offers a warm welcome to the gay traveler.
• Booksa – This literary café is situated in Zagreb’s design district. It’s a perfect spot for reading and relaxation, with a friendly and open atmosphere.
• HotPot Bar – Zagreb’s cozy gay bar is famous for its welcoming vibe and regular events, including karaoke nights and drag shows. A must-visit for those looking to mingle with locals.

Recommended Hotels

Here are the Hotels we recommend that keep you close to all the action

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel,    Sheraton Zagreb Hotel,    Hotel Capital,    Hotel PARK 45