Best Christmas Markets in Croatia

Ban Jelačić Square

Zagreb's most prominent square hosts the ceremonial lighting of the first Advent candle that inaugurates the season's festivities. The grand 19th century buildings surrounding the square are dressed in twinkling lights, with a central stage providing cultural performances and surrounding stands offering food, drink, and gift options.

King Tomislav Square

One of Zagreb's most recognizable Advent attractions, the Ice Park features a beautiful figure-8 skating rink set in front of Zagreb's oldest and most famous art gallery, the Zagreb Art Pavilion. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the rink is surrounded by trees adorned with sparkling lights, with stands offering mulled wine and seasonal street food nearby.

Strossmayer Promenade

Located on the Strossmayer Promenade in Zagreb's medieval Upper Town with stunning views across the city, this area is a favorite for its romantic atmosphere and spirited entertainment. Visitors can enjoy smooth Jazz, DJ-spun tunes, and choir performances along with gourmet food. Eclectic décor adds to the ambiance of this elevated market location.

Zrinjevac Park

This popular park near Ban Jelačić Square is illuminated with hundreds of trees covered in glittering lights lining the main pathway. Charming white wooden huts sell gifts handcrafted by local artisans and serve winter specialties such as baked Štrukli, Krpice sa zeljem, and strudel. Live musical performances occasionally take place in the central pavilion.

European Square

Located just east of Ban Jelačić Square in the pedestrian zone, this market is known for its urban flair and is a favorite meeting place of young people. It offers live music and one of the best gastronomic selections in Zagreb, where visitors can sample hearty Croatian comfort food and traditional treats.

Grič Tunnel

The Grič Tunnel, which once served as a World War II bomb shelter and promenade, now hosts cultural events. During the Christmas season, the tunnel gets a festive makeover, transforming it into an interactive exhibition with themed displays and light installations including icy North Pole landscapes. Visitors enter at Mesnička Street and follow one-way foot traffic to the exit at Rićeva Street.

Kaptol

Live actors including Mary, Joseph, the 3 Kings, shepherds and live animals bring to life the story of the birth of Christ in this mesmerizing nativity scene staged on Kaptol, next to the Zagreb Cathedral. The story is acted out by members of the Cenacolo Community, a group dedicated to fighting addiction, who through their deeply felt performance also dramatize the struggles of addiction and the possibility to be reborn free.

Ribnjak Park

Ribnjak Park sparkles with 'moon dust' during the Christmas season, creating a magical atmosphere. This market is part of Zagreb's extensive Advent celebration that transforms the city into a winter wonderland.

Strossmayer Square

Fuliranje, which translates to 'fooling around', encourages visitors to do exactly that at this lively Christmas Market. DJs spin classics and encourage shoppers to dance in the street. It has one of the most varied culinary offerings, with top chefs from the city's best restaurants serving up local and international favorites including Sarma, gourmet burgers, ramen, and vegetarian options.

Marić Passage

This small covered passage between Gajeva and Praška Streets is transformed into a wintery forest of LED-lit white branches. The enchanting atmosphere offers a wonderful opportunity for photos in this magical setting.

National Theatre

The grand foyer of the National Theatre provides a perfect setting for festive photos and holiday celebrations. This location is part of Zagreb's city-wide Advent celebration featuring creative workshops, performances, and special holiday programming.

British Square

Held annually from December 22-24 at the British Square market, popularly called 'Mali plac' (Little Square), this fair has become a well-known gathering place for antique lovers, antiquarians, and collectors. Visitors can browse unique antiques, artworks, and vintage items while enjoying the scent of mulled wine and the festive atmosphere, making it an ideal place to find unique Christmas gifts.