Zagreb: Restaurants, Food & Old Town Walking Tour

Thinking about adding a food and sightseeing experience to your Zagreb trip? We’ve looked into this highly-rated small-group tour that combines tastings, culture, and history. Designed for those who want to get a true taste of the city, it offers a blend of delicious Croatian dishes, local wines, and a walk through Zagreb’s most iconic sights.

What strikes us most about this tour? First, the in-depth knowledge of the guides—many reviews highlight how passionate and informative they are. Second, the variety of tastings—from regional appetizers to regional wines and a surprise dessert, you’re bound to leave full and satisfied.

One thing to consider is the walking component—it involves strolling through hilly, cobbled streets, which might be tiring for some. Also, at about $102 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but many feel the quality and quantity of food and drink justify the price.

If you’re someone who loves food and culture—especially if you enjoy exploring a city on foot with a knowledgeable guide—this tour could be a perfect fit. Families with older children or those interested in Croatian cuisine and history will likely find it both fun and informative.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with storytelling and local insights
• A generous amount of food and wine makes the tour more than just a tasting
• You’ll visit many of Zagreb’s iconic sights, blending sightseeing with foodie stops
• Hilly streets and cobblestones mean comfortable shoes are a must
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but not ideal for vegans or gluten-free diets
• It’s highly rated, with 173 reviews averaging 4.8/5, and many repeat bookings

This 3 to 4-hour experience starts in Zagreb’s lively Gornji Grad (Upper Town), right at Ban Jelai Square — a bustling hub close to the old city core. The meeting point is convenient, near public transportation, and the group size caps at around 15, which ensures a more personal feel. Our impression is that this is less about rushing and more about savoring each moment, each dish, and each story.

The Starting Point: Ban Jelai Square

The tour kicks off in the city’s central square, a lively place filled with cafes, street performers, and locals. Your guide will set the scene, offering quick historical context while getting you ready for the culinary journey ahead. From here, a short walk takes you to the European Square, overlooked by Zagreb’s stunning cathedral. This is where Zagreb’s lively spirit shines through, often hosting outdoor markets or concerts.

Tip: Expect to do some walking—this is a city tour with a lot of ground covered, but that’s part of the fun. Wear comfortable shoes because the streets are cobbled, and there are stairs involved, especially at the panoramic Strossmayer promenade.

First Stop: Istrian Flavors at Ul. Augusta Cesarca 2

The first restaurant introduces you to Istrian cuisine with a cold appetizer—an homage to Croatia’s western peninsula. You’ll learn about Istra’s culinary traditions, famous for their fresh ingredients and simple yet flavorful dishes. The food arrives with a glass of local wine, giving you an immediate taste of regional pairing.

Reviewers rave about the warmth of this first tasting, with one noting that the dishes set a high bar for the rest of the tour. The guide explains the significance of each dish, adding a layer of cultural understanding that elevates the experience.

What to expect: A relaxed atmosphere, friendly hosts, and a chance to sample a regional specialty.

Market Visit: Dolac Farmers Market

Next, the group visits Dolac Market, a staple in Zagreb since 1930. It’s a lively hub where farmers sell everything from fresh produce to traditional cheeses. This stop is more than just shopping; it’s a glimpse into Croatian daily life and the importance of local ingredients.

According to reviews, the market holds deep cultural significance, and guides often share stories about the local producers and their customs. It’s an authentic experience that helps you understand the ingredients you’ll encounter later in the tour.

Zagreb’s Heart: Tkalciceva Street and Stone Gates

Walking through Tkalciceva Street, you’ll experience Zagreb’s vibrant, colorful atmosphere. This street is a perfect intro to local life, lined with cafes, small shops, and lively chatter.

The Stone Gates, a defensive structure dating back to the 13th century, marks the next stop. Now a revered oath site, this historical monument adds a meaningful touch to your walk. It’s a reminder of Zagreb’s medieval roots and resilience.

The Cathedral and St. Mark’s Square

A short stroll takes you to Zagreb Cathedral, an impressive Gothic structure that dominates the skyline. Nearby, St. Mark’s Square houses the parliament and a charming church with a distinctive tiled roof. These landmarks are the visual highlights of Zagreb’s old town and a must-see for history buffs.

Review insight: Many guests mention how these sites, combined with the guide’s stories, made history come alive. One reviewer appreciated learning about Zagreb’s resilience through the city’s architecture and monuments.

Uspinjača Funicular & Views from Strossmayer Promenade

The tour includes a quick ride on Zagreb’s shortest funicular, a charming piece of local transportation, before reaching the Strossmayer Promenade. Here, panoramic views of the city stretch out before you—perfect for photos or just soaking in the sunset. Many guests comment on how this spot feels romantic and peaceful, a great place to pause before dinner.

Croatian Regional Cuisine: Main Dish at Meskina ul. 6

The third restaurant specializes in Zagreb and Zagorje dishes, offering hearty, regional recipes. You’ll get to taste a traditional main course, with explanations about the region’s culinary heritage. Our impression from reviews is that this was a highlight for many, especially given the authentic flavors and generous portions.

Note: Some reviews praise the quality of the food and the guide’s storytelling, while others mention the portion sizes being filling enough to carry you through the night.

Hidden Gems and Historic Tunnels

Passing through Tunnel Gri, built during World War II, adds a touch of wartime history, making the experience more layered. The Bloody Bridge, infamous for past conflicts, is a reminder of Zagreb’s turbulent past and resilience.

Final Stop: A Surprise Croatian Dessert & Wines

The tour concludes at a cozy restaurant offering a sweet surprise—regional dessert paired with local wines, including some specifically used for desserts. Guests often describe the dessert as memorable—something sweet to finish the day on a high note.

Review highlight: Multiple guests mention how the desserts and wine pairing beautifully encapsulate Croatia’s regional flavors.

When evaluating the value, consider that for roughly $102, you’re getting multiple tastings, several glasses of local wine, a guided city tour, and access to some of Zagreb’s most iconic sights. Many reviews emphasize the generous portions and deep cultural insights, making it a well-rounded experience for those interested in Croatian cuisine and history.

This tour is especially suitable if you want to see Zagreb’s highlights without the hassle of planning or booking multiple visits. It’s a good choice for food lovers, first-time visitors, or anyone who enjoys walking and storytelling in a small group. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach seem to be a major plus, making the experience both educational and fun.

The main consideration is the walking—it involves cobbled streets, hills, and stairs, which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, since the tour focuses on traditional dishes and regional wines, it might not be ideal for vegans or those with gluten sensitivities, as options are limited and no gluten-free menu is offered.

Price-wise, some might find it on the higher side, but reviews suggest that the quality, quantity, and overall experience justify the cost. There’s also a chance that the tour won’t run if minimum numbers aren’t met, though this is standard with small-group tours.

If you love exploring cities through food, enjoy learning about local customs and history, and don’t mind walking, this tour is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon or early evening in Zagreb. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a rundown, food aficionados eager to taste regional specialties, or travelers wanting a mix of sights and bites in one seamless experience.

Families with older children or teens interested in food and culture will also find this engaging. But if you prefer a relaxed, less active outing, or have dietary restrictions, you might want to consider alternative options.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes a professional guide, tastings of Croatian dishes, several glasses of local wine, and a tasting of Croatian Rakija. It does not cover hotel pick-up or drop-off.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Vegetarian options are available upon request, but the tour isn’t recommended for vegans as gluten-free menus are not offered and some dishes are quite traditional.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are advised, as the tour involves walking on cobblestone streets and stairs.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the full amount isn’t refunded.

Are guides knowledgeable about Zagreb’s history?
Absolutely. Many reviews praise the guides for their friendly manner, storytelling, and their ability to combine historical insights with culinary details.

This Zagreb food and old town tour offers a well-balanced mix of historic sights, vibrant neighborhoods, and authentic Croatian cuisine. The small-group setup creates a personalized, relaxed atmosphere that’s perfect for those who enjoy storytelling and tasting local flavors in a lively setting.

While the walk and the price might be considerations for some, many guests find the experience to be worth every euro. The guides’ enthusiasm, the quality of the food, and the panoramic views make it a memorable way to approach your first or subsequent trip to Zagreb.

If you value authentic experiences that blend culture, history, and gastronomy, this tour is likely to meet your expectations—and perhaps even surprise you with some hidden gems along the way.