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Things to do in Zagreb in December offer a chance to experience the city in a different light. The festive atmosphere fills the streets, bringing a sense of occasion that shapes everyday life. Outdoor spaces take on a seasonal charm, creating opportunities for activities that feel even more enjoyable in the crisp air. Food and drink add to the experience, offering familiar comforts and seasonal flavours that enhance the setting. The sights and sounds add to the lively yet welcoming feel, making it easy to explore and take in everything the season has to offer.
10 Famous Things To Do In Zagreb In December
Here are some of the best things to do in Zagreb in December, offering a great way to enjoy the season’s atmosphere and unique experiences.
1. Advent Zagreb Festival
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Advent Zagreb is a big winter festival that fills the city with lights, music, and markets. It has been named the best Christmas market in Europe several times. Visitors can enjoy traditional food, buy handmade gifts, and watch live performances. The festival occurs in historic streets and squares, creating a warm and festive atmosphere. This festival is one of the best things to see in Zagreb in December, offering a mix of culture and holiday fun. With concerts, ice skating, and decorations all around, it is a great way to experience the city during the festive season.
Location: Various locations throughout Zagreb, including Ban Jelačić Square
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
2. Ice Skating At King Tomislav Square
Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Zagreb offers outdoor ice skating in December, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Skaters of all ages can enjoy gliding on the ice, whether they are beginners or experienced. Surrounded by twinkling lights and seasonal decorations, it provides a fun way to embrace the winter spirit. It is one of the best things to do in Zagreb in December, combining excitement and tradition. Visitors can skate under the open sky, enjoy cheerful music, and warm up with hot drinks from nearby stalls. The movement, laughter, and festive charm make it a memorable experience.
Location: King Tomislav Square, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
3. Christmas Market At Zrinjevac Park
Photo: herbert2512 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Zagreb transforms into a festive destination with traditional Christmas markets filled with lights, music, and decorated stalls. Visitors can explore a variety of stalls selling handmade gifts, festive decorations, and warm winter drinks. Freshly baked treats, roasted chestnuts, and other seasonal foods add to the experience. Live performances, carol singing, and musicians bring extra cheer, making the market a lively place to visit. It is a great way to enjoy the holiday season, find unique gifts, and experience festive traditions. Visiting a Christmas market brings seasonal charm and festive spirit for anyone wondering what to do in Zagreb in December.
Location: Zrinjevac Park, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Live Nativity Scene At Zagreb Cathedral
Photo: Bodro777 / Wikimedia Commons
Zagreb hosts a live Nativity scene where actors dressed in traditional costumes reenact the story of Christmas with real animals. The performance includes narration, music, and carefully arranged scenes that bring historical events to life. Visitors can see key moments of the Nativity played out in detail, from the journey to Bethlehem to the arrival of the Three Wise Men. The event occurs at scheduled times, allowing spectators to follow the full story. For those seeking the best things to do in Zagreb in December, this event offers a meaningful way to experience Christmas traditions.
Location: Kaptol Square, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 45 minutes
5. Fooling Around Gourmet Street Food
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fooling Around Gourmet Street Food is a festive event in Zagreb that brings together gourmet street food, craft beers, and live music. It offers a modern take on traditional celebrations, featuring a variety of seasonal dishes and unique flavours. Visitors can enjoy freshly made specialities, from savoury meals to sweet treats, paired with a selection of drinks. The lively atmosphere and diverse food options make it a great place to experience festive flavours. This event is among the best things to see in Zagreb in December, creating a vibrant setting for seasonal celebrations.
Location: Strossmayer Square, Zagreb
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
6. Concerts At The Croatian National Theatre
Photo: Stryn / Wikimedia Commons
December brings a variety of concerts and performances, offering a chance to enjoy music, opera, and ballet in an elegant setting. These events showcase talented artists and a mix of classical and contemporary works, making them a festive season highlight. Attending a performance is a great way to experience culture and tradition while enjoying high-quality entertainment. With a diverse programme, there is something for every taste. For those looking for the best things to do in Zagreb in December, these concerts provide a memorable way to celebrate the season through music and performing arts.
Location: Trg Republike Hrvatske 15, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
7. Art Exhibitions At The Museum Of Contemporary Art
Photo: Myriam Thyes / Wikimedia Commons
Art exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb offer a chance to explore modern creativity during December. These exhibitions showcase works from Croatian and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and multimedia installations. With changing displays, visitors can experience fresh artistic perspectives and discover innovative ideas. Exploring these exhibitions is one of the best things to do in Zagreb in December, providing an insightful and inspiring experience. It is a great way to enjoy cultural activities while discovering contemporary art during the festive season.
Location: Avenija Dubrovnik 17, Zagreb, Croatia, Europe
Ideal Trip Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
8. Advent In The Tunnel
Photo: Adam Harangozó / Wikimedia Commons
Advent in the Tunnel is a festive light and audio-visual experience within the Grič Tunnel in Zagreb. Each December, the tunnel is transformed with a new theme, featuring artistic projections, creative installations, and historical or fairy-tale-inspired displays. Visitors can walk through illuminated scenes, interactive exhibits, and multimedia presentations that bring the space to life. The event often includes storytelling elements, combining visual effects with music for an immersive experience. It is a unique way to explore art, history, and festive traditions in an underground setting, making it one of the most memorable attractions during the holiday season.
Location: Mesnička ul. 19, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
Ideal Trip Duration: 30 – 60 minutes
9. CROAGRO Agricultural Fair
Photo: MarioCRO / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the best things to do in Zagreb in December is to visit the CROAGRO Agricultural Fair, which showcases the latest advancements in farming technology, equipment, and sustainable agriculture. This event brings together industry professionals, farmers, and visitors interested in modern food production and rural development. Exhibitors present advanced machinery, organic products, and innovative farming techniques, offering a fascinating look at the agricultural sector. Visitors can explore interactive displays, attend expert talks, and discover locally produced food and seeds. This December fair in Zagreb offers a unique experience for those interested in agriculture, sustainability, and food innovation.
Location: Zagreb Fair, Zagreb, Croatia
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours to tour exhibits and attend presentations
10. Ride The Zagreb Funicular
Photo: Jorge Láscar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Zagreb Funicular offers a short yet scenic ride between Lower Town and Upper Town, providing a unique way to experience the city in December. As one of the world’s oldest and shortest funiculars, it takes on a festive charm during the holiday season. The journey may be brief, but the views of Zagreb’s decorated streets and rooftops make it a memorable experience. The funicular also provides easy access to Advent events and seasonal attractions in Upper Town. Riding on this historic transport is a great way to enjoy the festive season and explore winter celebrations.
Location: Tomićeva Street (Lower Station) to Strossmayer Promenade (Upper Station), Zagreb
Ideal Trip Duration: 15 – 30 minutes
Things to do in Zagreb in December offer a chance to enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere through markets, concerts, and seasonal events. There are activities for all interests, from ice skating and street food festivals to cultural exhibitions and immersive light displays. Outdoor spaces, historic venues, and local traditions create a memorable winter experience. Book your trip with TripXL for a great way to experience the city’s holiday season.
Cover Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
