Zagreb: Small Group Walking Tour & WW2 Gric Tunnel

Summary

Walk Zagreb’s old streets, taste market life, step into wartime tunnels

You’ll wander Zagreb’s lively streets with a small group, taste local snacks at Dolac Market (if open), step into the cool shadows of the WW2 Gric Tunnel with your guide sharing real stories, and catch those rooftop views from Upper Town that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already standing under those huge trees in Zrinjevac Park when our guide, Ana, waved us over — she had this calm way of talking that made you want to listen. There was a little crowd at the meteorological station (I didn’t even know what that was until she pointed out the old dials), and someone nearby was selling roasted chestnuts. The air smelled sweet and smoky. I almost missed Ana explaining how Zagreb grew from two medieval towns because I got distracted by a kid chasing pigeons — but that’s kind of the vibe here, you know?

Walking through Ban Jelacic Square felt like being in the middle of everything — people meeting friends, someone strumming guitar, trams rattling past. Ana told us about how Zagreb got its name (there’s a legend with a well and a thirsty knight; I probably can’t retell it right). The Dolac Market was buzzing with voices and colors — red umbrellas everywhere, women selling cheese and peppers. She introduced us to one vendor who let us try some pickled cabbage. It was tangy, not what I expected at all.

I wasn’t ready for the sudden coolness stepping into the Gric Tunnel — it’s strange thinking people hid down here during WWII while life went on above. The walls felt damp and echoed every footstep. Ana didn’t sugarcoat anything; she just told us what happened, and then we popped back up into sunlight on Tkalciceva Street where everyone seemed to be sipping coffee or laughing loudly. It was such a contrast.

Upper Town looked like something from an old storybook — St. Mark’s Church with its crazy colorful roof tiles (I tried to take a photo but couldn’t fit it all in). We walked along Strossmayer promenade for these wild rooftop views of Zagreb — honestly, I still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic at home. Our last stop was Stone Gate; there were candles burning inside and people pausing quietly to pray or just… stand there for a second. We ended back at the main square, but nobody rushed off right away.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Zagreb's historic sites and tunnels

• Start at Zrinjevac Park
• Visit Jelacic Square
• See Zagreb Cathedral
• Explore Dolac Market
• Walk Tkalciceva Street
• Visit Gric Tunnel
• View Lotrscak Tower
• Tour Upper Town and Strossmayer promenade
• Walk through Stone Gate
• End at Main Square

Top questions

How long is the Zagreb walking tour?

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours.

Does this tour include entry to the WW2 Gric Tunnel?

Yes, but if there’s an event inside it may be closed on your day.

Where does the walking tour start?

The tour starts at Zrinjevac Park in front of the Meteorological station.

Is Dolac Market included in every tour?

No, Dolac Market is closed for afternoon tours and public holidays.

How big is each group?

The small group size is limited to 16 people.

Is this tour suitable for children or strollers?

Yes, infants and children can join; strollers are welcome.

Will we ride the funicular during this tour?

No, the funicular is closed for renovation until March 2026.

Are there any food tastings included?

You might sample local foods at Dolac Market if it’s open but tastings aren’t guaranteed.

What’s included

Your day includes walking with a licensed local guide through Zagreb’s historic center, stops at major landmarks like Ban Jelacic Square and St. Mark’s Church, entry to the WW2 Gric Tunnel when open, plus time at Dolac Market if available—no extra tickets needed; just bring comfy shoes and curiosity.