What You Won’t Find in Zagreb: 5 Unique Characteristics of Croatia’s Capital

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a city brimming with history and culture, offering a distinctive charm to its visitors and residents. However, there are some features that are common in other major cities but notably absent here. This article explores these unique traits, comparing them to Zagreb's special offerings.

Unlike many Croatian cities such as Split, Zadar, or Dubrovnik, Zagreb is located inland and has no access to the sea. However, this doesn’t mean that residents lack opportunities to enjoy water and nature. The Sava River, flowing through the city, features green embankments popular for walking, cycling, and recreation. Additionally, there are lakes Bundek and Jarun, beloved summer destinations for locals. Jarun Lake is often called “Zagreb’s sea” due to its swimming areas, rowing facilities, and numerous sports activities.

These locations also host various events, including music festivals, markets, and sports competitions. While it may lack the scent of saltwater and the sound of waves, Zagreb compensates with alternatives that enrich its residents’ lives.

One thing that many European cities have, but Zagreb doesn’t, is an underground metro system. Instead, the city relies on trams and buses as its main public transport options. The Zagreb tram network, one of the oldest in Europe, includes 15 daytime and 4 nighttime lines connecting various parts of the city. Additionally, railway lines link the east and west, while also dividing the city into northern and southern halves.

Although trams offer an affordable way to get around, morning and afternoon rush hours can be challenging due to crowding. The absence of a metro means surface traffic is heavily concentrated, occasionally resulting in delays.

One of Zagreb’s greatest strengths is its safety. The city is frequently ranked among the safest capitals in Europe. According to the Numbeo Crime Index for 2023, Zagreb boasts low crime rates, and both residents and visitors feel safe in nearly all parts of the city. Regardless of the time of day or night, navigating the city is worry-free, with virtually no dangerous neighborhoods to avoid.

This level of security makes Zagreb appealing not only to its residents but also to tourists, who can explore its streets and historic landmarks without concern.

Croatia is one of the most ethnically homogenous countries in Europe, and Zagreb is no exception. According to the latest census, over 90% of Zagreb’s population identifies as Croat, with Catholicism being the predominant religion. As a result, Catholic churches dominate the cityscape, while synagogues and mosques are rare. For instance, the Meštrović Pavilion, which once served as a mosque, now functions as an art exhibition space.

While Zagreb might not exhibit the same level of cultural diversity as some other European capitals, it has become home to an increasing number of foreign workers, particularly from Asia and Africa, in recent years. The city offers a welcoming atmosphere to tourists and new residents, making it more diverse and inclusive over time.

Unlike modern metropolises such as Singapore, Dubai, or Las Vegas, Zagreb isn’t known for towering skyscrapers or glittering urban zones. Its architecture reflects a deep connection to history and tradition. The city’s historic core, including the Upper Town and Kaptol, is filled with medieval structures, Gothic churches, towers, and streets with Baroque elements.
One of the few modern landmarks is the Cibona Tower, a business skyscraper built in 1987, standing at 92 meters tall. However, such structures are rare, and Zagreb prides itself more on its historical legacy than a futuristic skyline.