“Why spend Valentine's Day in
Zagreb when you can escape to the Croatian Islands?” You've likely heard this question before. As far as romance in Croatia is concerned, its Mediterranean Islands reign supreme. So much so that the country's capital is often overlooked. It's a shame too, because Zagreb is a fairly romantic city. If you choose to spend Valentine's Day in Zagreb, know you won't regret your decision. There's a lot you and your special someone can do in the Croatian capital to celebrate the year's most romantic holiday. You can shop at the Dolac Market, go on a foodie tour of Tkalčićeva Street, have fun by Jarun Lake, or see the city's castles!
Explore Zagreb's Upper Town
Gornji-Grad is the most popular among the
many neighborhoods in Zagreb. Commonly referred to as the 'Upper Town' of the Croatian capital, it's located along the hillside of the area, resulting in inclined cobbled streets and slightly fresher air compared to the rest of the city. This sort of wave of old-world nostalgia works well for couples who want to get lost in the romance of European capitals. The storybook-like district provides the perfect setting for a lovely stroll with your partner as you explore the most historic part of Zagreb.
See The Castles Nearby
With its Medieval heritage on full display, you can expect a few noteworthy castles both in and near Zagreb. Looking as if they came straight out of your favorite
Disney films, these fortresses and palaces have a tinge of romance to them. So don't you think they're perfect to visit when you spend Valentine's Day in Zagreb? There's the Art Pavilion, for example, which is a captivating piece of Baroque architecture at the heart of the city. The Trakošćan Castle, on the other hand, requires a day trip from Zagreb but its stately appearance makes it all worthwhile!
Eat Out at Tkalčićeva Street
Tkalčićeva Street is arguably the most famous strip of eateries in Zagreb. This the place to be for the young and the restless with a lot of energy and hunger to match. Tkalčićeva Street is known for its many hotspots, ranging from the coolest bars to the most fabulous
restaurants in Zagreb. If you ever want to go on a foodie tour of the city, this is the best place to start! It'll be even more amazing if you take your beloved with you and enjoy an eating spree for Valentine's Day. A few highlights include Wok by Matija, Submarine Burger, Confusion Bar, and Koykan World Food Tkalčićeva.
Shop at The Dolac Market
Prefer a home-cooked meal for your Valentine's Day date? Not to worry! You can get the freshest ingredients in Zagreb's famous Dolac Market. Located in Upper Town, it's the biggest and most beloved farmer's market in the Croatian Capital. It's pretty easy to spot—just look for the big red umbrellas. They provide shade for the myriad of stalls that sell delicious meats, homegrown fruits & vegetables, and freshly caught seafood. Shopping here is pretty romantic in and of itself! It's a great way to spend time with your partner and get to know their taste.
Source: Flickr.com/ Sei F
Enjoy a Picnic at The Park
Since Croatia is in the Mediterranean, does this mean that Zagreb will still be sunny here in February, which is towards the end of winter? Unfortunately, that's not the case. The coast and the
islands of Croatia enjoy that signature year-round Mediterranean warmth, but since the capital city is located right smack in the middle of the country, which is already near Central Europe, it experiences all four seasons. So Valentine's Day in Zagreb will often be a rather chilly holiday. But that shouldn't stop you from going on a picnic. Once you’ve bundled up in your best sweater, coat, and boots, you’re good to go!
Have Fun by Jarun Lake
If you're lucky, February 14th might just be an extraordinarily sunny that you can
spend the day in Zagreb outside. And if that's the case, you'll want to have fun by Jarun Lake. This is the district where you can play to your heart's content. If you and your significant other are both athletic, you can do all sorts of sports here, ranging from football and rugby to even swimming and kayaking. You can also go jogging, do aerobics, or perhaps even a spot of yoga! As long as the day is sunny, there's no end to what you lovebirds can do near Jarun Lake!
Go on a Cruise Down The Sava River
From one body of water to another, going on a cruise down the Sava River is also a good idea for spending Valentine's Day in Zagreb. For one thing, the river is not in a central part of town. It's more by the edge of the city, making it a quieter spot compared to Jarun Lake. The peace here makes it even more suitable for couples to get into the mood. For the most romantic holiday of the year, you can take your beloved on a cruise down this relatively serene river. You can even include a candlelit dinner too!
Escape to Samobor
Samobor is a whole different town that's only a hop and a skip away from Zagreb. You can easily take a day trip from the Croatian capital just for Valentine's Day. But what exactly makes it suitable for the most romantic day of the year? Its idyllic Medieval design and fairytale-like appeal. Samobor is made up of cobbled streets, maisonettes, some timbered houses, and there are even ruins of the former Samobor Castle atop a nearby mountain. Such a place is practically screaming to be explored, particularly by couples who want to revel in the romance of centuries past.
Visit The Museum of Broken Relationships
This last one is a bit of an anomaly. You'd think that going to somewhere called 'The Museum of Broken Relationships' would be the place you'd visit on Valentine's Day, but what's life without a bit of irony in it? This unique gallery isn't just for the brokenhearted. Even couples who are still on the honeymoon stage will find it interesting. As you browse through the items left and donated by couples who have long separated, you'll get a better idea of what not to do in your relationship. Your visit might even inspire you to work harder on your love!
Source: Visit The Museum of Broken Relationships Facebook Page
Don't let others convince you that the Croatian Islands are the only romantic destinations in the country. You can still spend Valentine's Day in Zagreb and have a lot of fun with your significant other. It's still a great place for couples!
