Zagreb: Croatian getaway in a day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Michael Battles
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  On a recent long weekend, I decided that I wanted to take a day trip that I could not only drive to, but didn't have to spend much money on. Only four hours by car sits the Croatian capital of Zagreb, which instantly captivated me from the moment I arrived.

Knowing I would only be in the city a short amount of time, I headed directly for the city center, which is known to be busy with travelers and locals. Since it was Saturday, the center played host to the weekly market that had a variety of souvenirs, produce, clothing and jewelry for purchase.

Also surrounding the city center is an abundance of restaurants and pubs that cater to everything a person would want. Whether a person wants traditional Croatian Mješano meso (meat skewers) or a sample of the Croatian version of American food, the square offers a variety of dining options perfect to satisfy any food craving.

Dating back to the 1094 A.D., the city of Zagreb has a numerous museums that focus on its history, art and culture. Some of the most frequented and visited museums by tourists are the Archaeological Museum, The Museum of Contemporary Art and the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art.

Additionally, Zagreb is well-known for its performing arts theaters and concert halls. Throughout the year the city of Zagreb hosts numerous American musicians, singers and performers. The Vatroslav Lisinski Concert Hall and the Croatian National Theatre

With almost a million visitors annually, the city has blossomed into a tourist mecca, which hosts a diverse variety of tourist attractions. During a visit, tourist can make their way through Jelačić Square, Dolac Market and Ban Jelačić Square. Some famous Zagreb sites include the Grounded Sun and Kamenita vrata. The Order of the Silver Dragon group offers visitors unique reenact shows of famous historical conflicts in St. Mark's Square.

With its ancient architecture and historical past, Zagreb is one place that needs to be visited while stationed in Europe.