panorama of Zagreb at night

How to Spend a Perfect Night in Zagreb

Croatia’s capital is a city for wanderers. Arch your neck towards the skies, and you will see domes, spires, and red rooftops. As the sun begins to set in Zagreb, all this architectural glory is set off by dipping pastel hues, all the way until darkness falls. If you’re looking for things to do in Zagreb at night, you’ve come to the right place!

Nightlife in Zagreb is about discovering local traditions, dinner and a show, nightcaps in bars playing songs that soothe the soul, or partying streetside. Discover a perfect night in Zagreb.

Explore the old quarter on foot

One of the best ways to discover Zagreb at night is by wandering around the city and experiencing the liveliness of this city on foot. Renowned for its music, cafes, bars, and pubs, the good times flow out onto the streets where even passersby can enjoy Zagreb’s colourful ambience. Many of the streets in the centre of the city transform into alfresco hangouts, especially during the summer. In the winter months, around the holidays you can discover a charming market that takes over almost every nook and cranny in the city.

Zagreb fountain in front of the old railway station at night
Explore Zagreb’s old world charm at night on foot | © Max Pixel

Stroll around Tkalčićeva

If you want to experience Zagreb’s romantic café culture and street side pub scene, then head north of the city’s main square, and you’ll find Tkalčićeva Street. This famous vibrant strip is filled with small boutiques, traditional stores, and places to eat and drink, making it the perfect day-to-night destination. The old houses and paths will add a fairytale aspect to the proceedings. For a soulful, jazzy affair, get yourself to Melin Café or Booze and Blues Bar.

Visit the Strossmayer Promenade

For a perfect night in Zagreb, go and watch the sunset on Strossmayer Promenade. After this, you’ll be in the best position to enjoy the lively atmosphere in this part of town. Depending on the season, you’ll find many different things to do, but it’s the most fun in the summer, where this promenade turns into a lively outdoor hangout.

Take a peek at Zagreb; 360°

For 360-degree visuals and to see the city flickering with picturesque bright lights, head over to the Zagreb’s observation deck . It’s touristy, but it’s one of those activities that even the cynics won’t mind. It’s a great way to see the city, from the old buildings to the glittery skyscrapers, the nighttime sky only brings out Zagreb’s charm.

Panorama overlooking the city of Zagreb at night, the light illuminate the old architecture
Zagreb’s city lights are a lovely sight | © Kévin Veau/Flickr

Enjoy a beer at Pod Starim Krovovima

A classic watering hole, Pod Starim Krovovima is Zagreb’s oldest tavern. Located in a 14th-century building in Upper Town, with artsy patrons like writers and actors, it’s one of the city’s unique late-nite experiences. Wooden panels and tinder beams add the necessary details for an authentic old-school experience. Art exhibitions and impromptu concerts and dance parties make it the perfect spot to linger over Vukovarsko beer and wine.

Take in a show at the Croatian National Theatre 

If you are looking for a different kind of cultural experience why not visit the Croatian National Theatre? This prestigious space teeming with old-world glamour is where you can see classic plays written by the greats, beautiful ballet performances, and amazing operas. It’s a unique way to enjoy the local nightlife while you’re visiting Zagreb, and what could be more magical or traditional than doing dinner and a show?

A brightly lit Croatian National Theatre against a purple sky surrounded by snow
For a magical evening see a show in Zagreb’s prestigious performance space | © Flickr

Expand your mind at the Arthouse Cinema

For another alternative to bars and partying, why not visit one of the city’s arthouse cinemas? Kino Europa is a 1920s cinema with a classic cafe-cum-bar that frequently screens arthouse movies.

If you’re looking for a magical night out, Zagreb more than delivers on culture, entertainment, and, yes, that nightlife Croatia is famous around the world for. With a little know-how, you can make your night in Zagreb an absolute dream!

Do you have suggestions for the best spots in Zagreb at night? Let us know!

Based in Toronto, Sahar is a full-time content editor for Days to Come and part-time travel junkie.

Girl in bed surrounded by travel photos
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