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Gornji Grad: Zagreb's Captivating Upper Town

Discover Zagreb's historic Upper Town: cobblestone streets, medieval landmarks, and captivating cultural experiences await!

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Gornji Grad, or Upper Town, is the historic heart of Zagreb, Croatia, perched atop a hill with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture. Explore landmarks like St. Mark's Church, the Stone Gate, and Lotrščak Tower while immersing yourself in the city's rich history and culture.

A brief summary to Zagabria

  • Zagreb, Gornji Grad - Medveščak, HR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets.
  • Visit St. Mark's Church during Sunday mass for a chance to see the interior.
  • Check out the daily firing of the Grič cannon at Lotrščak Tower at noon.
  • Explore the charming side streets and courtyards for hidden gems and local experiences.
  • Enjoy the views of Zagreb from Strossmayer Promenade.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Ban Jelačić Square, the central hub of Zagreb, walk north towards Dolac Market. Continue uphill, following the signs for Gornji Grad. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes, passing through charming streets and offering glimpses of Zagreb's architecture. The Funicular is an alternative for a portion of the ascent, with a one-way ticket costing €0.66.

  • Public Transport

    Several tram lines connect the Lower Town with the vicinity of Gornji Grad. Take tram lines 1, 6, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 17 to the upper part of Ilica Street. From there, it's a short walk uphill to the Stone Gate, one of the main entrances to Gornji Grad. A single tram fare costs €0.53 for 30 minutes of travel or €0.93 for 60 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at newsstands or via the Moj ZET app.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are readily available in Zagreb. A short taxi ride from the main train station (Glavni kolodvor) to Gornji Grad typically costs between €5-€8, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app estimate before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Zagabria

Gornji Grad, also known as Upper Town, represents the historical nucleus of Zagreb, offering visitors a captivating journey through time. Situated on a hill, this district boasts a unique medieval ambiance, characterized by cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture, and a wealth of historical landmarks. Gornji Grad's history dates back to the Middle Ages when it evolved from two distinct settlements: Kaptol, the ecclesiastical center, and Gradec, a free royal city. Gradec received its royal charter in 1242 by King Béla IV. Over the centuries, these settlements merged to form the Upper Town, which served as a vital border fortress during the Turkish invasions. The Baroque reconstruction in the 17th and 18th centuries significantly shaped the city's appearance, with opulent palaces, monasteries, and churches replacing older wooden structures. Key landmarks in Gornji Grad include St. Mark's Church, renowned for its colorful tiled roof adorned with the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, and Slavonia. The Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata), a significant historical site and a place of pilgrimage, houses a small chapel. Lotrščak Tower offers panoramic city views and is known for the Grič cannon, which fires daily at noon. Other notable sites include the Croatian Parliament building (Sabor) and Banski dvori, the seat of the Croatian Government. Today, Gornji Grad is primarily a pedestrian zone, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city below. Visitors can explore museums like the Zagreb City Museum and the Museum of Broken Relationships, relax in green spaces such as Strossmayer Promenade and Grič Park, and savor traditional Croatian cuisine in local restaurants. Gornji Grad is a must-see destination for anyone seeking to experience Zagreb's rich history, culture, and charm.

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