Culture and heritage fully interweaving in one of Europe’s best destinations. By Jelena Bilusic, Head of Relationship Management, GSS Croatia.
When we think of places where we want to live or travel, we frequently associate them with the emotions those places create. Often when we recall our travels, we think of small places, towns or establishments, where we felt happy, warm, cosy and fully relaxed. Zagreb took this emotion to the streets and created events in this spirit for everyone to enjoy and share.
All year round Zagreb has something to offer. The GSS Newsletter lists the top 5 must go to events in Zagreb:
1. Advent in Zagreb
The secret to the best Christmas destinations in Europe lies in the level of detail in decorations that make you “ooh and aah” and the people who create a warm welcoming feeling and put a smile on your face. As well as unforgettable photos with happy locals who proudly embrace this event and give it its spirit and specialness.
2. The Courtyards
If you are in Zagreb in July, The Courtyards are a must go. This event allows you to go beyond the gates of the most beautiful Upper Town palaces and enter their courtyards. Aside from lots of good music, fun, and entertainment, delicious snacks and drinks, every courtyard has its own story that you can enjoy. Meandering from one to the next with a glass of wine or bit of food you become part of its secrecy and romance.
3. Zagreb Time Machine
From April to October if you take a walk through Upper Town there is a good chance you’ll see live performances of actors portraying men and women who have marked Zagreb’s history. You can meet Marija Jurić Zagorka, the first female Croatian journalist, committed feminist and writer; poet Antun Gustav Matoš: Dora and Pavle - Zagreb’s Romeo and Juliet and Ljudevit Gaj and Sidonija Rubido Erdody who will tell you about the Illyrian movement. On Saturdays, you can spot the thirsty viceroy and the beautiful girl Manda with a jug of water. If you want to enjoy musical attractions, Park Zrinjevac and Park Maksimir offer plenty of programmes.
4. Zagreb Classic
The summer of 2016 will for sure be remembered by the new event to cap off the ZgKul Zagreb cultural summer called Zagreb Classic. This event enabled everyone to enjoy first class symphony and opera led by the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra in one of the most beautiful parks in Zagreb – Tomislavac. Special attention to this event was brought by the 2Cellos birthday concert!
5. Vintage Zagreb Festival
The very heart of Zagreb, Cesarčeva Street, transforms into ’40s, ’50s and ’60s style. Visitors can enjoy dancing, including the greatest Rockabilly and swing songs, beautiful dresses, makeup and hairstyles! If you love old cars, motorcycles and handmade bikes, or just want to buy something antique, there are plenty of trades- and craftsmen for you to choose. For those with a refined palate, there are, as always, food, drinks and sweets delights in the Zagreb gastro corner.
So if you are up for a bit of travel, give Zagreb a chance. It will tell you its story and heritage and make you feel happy, warm, cosy and relaxed!