It's Valentine's! Looking for a something for you and your partner to get up to together in Zagreb? Time Out Croatia has compiled a list of cosy, charming and even offbeat date spots for couples visiting the capital.
Botanical Gardens
Run by the Faculty of Science of the University of Zagreb, the beautiful Botanical Gardens are a mix between a park and an open-air museum. With over 5,000 different species of plants, regularly maintained spaces and a charming little footbridge, here couples can relax in tranquil greenery. The gardens are centrally located, so it's easy to go for a romantic lunch somewhere nearby once you’re done. They're open from 9am to 2.30pm on Mondays and Tuesdays and are free, then from 9am to 4pm on all other days of the week, admission €2. More information on the website.
Cable Car to Medvednica
The recently reopened cable car, which takes passengers from the foot of Medvednica mountain to its peak, is a lovely experience in and of itself – but there’s something a little extra on offer for the week of Valentine’s Day. For €32, couples can ride in a private gondola with complimentary champagne, while at €80 the deal includes dinner for two at the panoramic Tomislavov Dom restaurant. Find out more here.
Maksimir Park
Not only the oldest city forest-park in Zagreb, beautiful Maksimir is perfect for a number of reasons Starting with strolls and picnics, it offers more serious hiking trails, as well as containing Zagreb Zoo. Just inside the main entrance, close to the tram stop for the Maksimir Stadium, it can provide traditional dining at the cutesy Maksimir Restaurant. All in all, it's the ideal romantic escape within easy reach of the main square by tram.
Museum of Broken Relationships
An offbeat pick at first glance, this now globally famous if quirky museum might suit couples looking to strengthen their bond. As part of this unique concept, exhibits are made up entirely of donated objects that all have an attached story relating to the end of a relationship – usually but not exclusively romantic. Admission is €7, the charming Upper Town surroundings offering welcome respite after your visit. More information here.
Strossmayer Promenade
Running along the remains of Zagreb’s medieval walls in the Upper Town, Strossmayer Promenade is a beautifully urban green space dotted with chestnut trees, interspersed with panoramic views of the city. It begins just beneath Lotrščak Tower – from which a cannon shot signals midday, a quirk of the capital – and is accessible by a short funicular ride from Ilica. This is also the spot where couples can engage in the tradition of locking a padlock to railings, cementing their mutual love forever, right next to countless others.