Zagreb Walking Tour: Old Town, Dolac Market & WWII Tunnel

Summary

Wander Zagreb’s winding streets markets legends and hidden tunnels

You’ll walk Zagreb’s old streets with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Taste cheese at Dolac Market, wander through WWII tunnels, and pause beneath St. Mark’s colorful roof tiles. Expect laughter, small surprises, and those moments when you feel less like a tourist—and more like you belong.

What’s the experience like?

I met our guide, Ana, right under the trees in Zrinjevac Park—she waved with that kind of easy confidence you get from growing up somewhere. Right away, she asked if I’d ever tried štrukli (I hadn’t), and promised we’d pass by a bakery later. The city felt busy but not rushed—old men playing chess, the clack of trams somewhere close. We crossed to Ban Jelačić Square, where Ana pointed out a statue everyone seems to use as a meeting spot (“You’ll see teenagers here all afternoon,” she said). I liked how she didn’t rush us; we just stood there for a minute watching people greet each other.

Dolac Market was next—rows of red umbrellas and women selling cheese who actually let me sample before buying (Ana chatted with them in Croatian; I just nodded and smiled). The smell of fresh bread hit me right away. I’m not sure what I expected from a “private walking tour Zagreb,” but it wasn’t this much warmth. At the Cathedral, Ana told us about the spires being rebuilt after an earthquake—I could still see scaffolding on one side. There was something oddly comforting about hearing how the city keeps patching itself up.

We ducked into Grič Tunnel—a cool hush after the street noise. It’s weird knowing you’re walking through something built during World War II, now full of schoolkids on field trips. Ana told us about the cannon that fires every day from Lotrščak Tower (“Don’t jump if you hear it!”). I did anyway when it went off—she laughed at me. We ended near St. Mark’s Church with its crazy tiled roof; honestly, photos don’t do it justice. My feet were tired but my head was kind of buzzing with all these stories—somehow Zagreb felt both familiar and totally new to me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Zagreb's main landmarks

• Visit Zrinjevac Park
• Walk to Ban Jelačić Square
• Learn about Zagreb legends
• See Zagreb Cathedral
• Explore Dolac Market
• Stroll Tkalčićeva Street
• Visit Grič Tunnel
• Ride the shortest funicular
• Climb Lotrščak Tower
• See St. Mark's Church
• Visit Stone Gate

Top questions

How long is the private walking tour in Zagreb?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect several hours covering main sights at a relaxed pace.

Does this tour include entry to attractions?

The tour includes a one-way funicular ticket; most stops are outdoors or public spaces.

Is lunch included on this Zagreb walking tour?

No lunch is included but there are food tastings at Dolac Market if you want to try local products.

Where does the tour start?

The tour begins downtown in Zrinjevac Park, part of Zagreb’s Green Horseshoe area.

Is this private walking tour suitable for kids?

Yes, though travelers should have moderate fitness as there’s quite a bit of walking.

What languages does the guide speak?

The licensed guide speaks English fluently.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this private walking tour in Zagreb.

Will we ride the funicular in Zagreb?

A one-way funicular ticket is included but note it’s closed for renovation until March 2026.

What’s included

Your day includes a private English-speaking licensed guide who meets you downtown in Zrinjevac Park, plus a one-way ticket for Zagreb’s famous funicular (though it’s under renovation until March 2026). You’ll explore on foot with plenty of time for questions and spontaneous stops along the way.