Maksimir Park (Maksimirirski Perivoj)

Laid out back in 1794, Maksimir Park (Maksimirirski perivoj) was the first of Zagreb’s many parks and remains the largest, covering a vast 316-hectare plot northeast of the Upper Town. Connected to the center by tram, the idyllic park is a popular retreat for city dwellers, offering a network of wooded walking and cycling trails, scenic lakes and hilltop lookouts. There’s plenty to see and do in the park - climb to the top of the landmark Belvedere for a dramatic panoramic view; go boating on one of the five lakes; pay a visit to the pretty Echo Pavilion or the Swiss House, fashioned like a mock Swiss chalet; or relax in one of the park’s many cafés or picnic spots.

Zagreb Zoo is another top attraction, located at the south entrance opposite Croatia's National Football Stadium, where visitors can marvel at everything from colorful butterflies to Red Pandas, or watch the daily feeding of the piranhas and sea lions. As the city’s largest public park, Maksimir also plays host to a range of annual festivals and events, most notably the ‘Summer in Maksimir’ festivities, with live music and dancing held each Sunday throughout the summer months.