Zagreb - The Summer Outside

Up until recently the Croatian idea of summer was Dalmatian coast. And who can blame us really, have you seen our islands and seaside? We have King's Landing! If we're good enough for the capital of Westeros, we've certainly got something to show off with. Unfortunately, some tourists still have this idea, and which is even sadder, some of the locals too.

But if you know your ways around Zagreb – you know they couldn't be more wrong. And you know what? Let them be. ;) And keep reading. Zagreb is far less crowded in the summer and far more relaxed. With far more people outside, having coffee. (You do know we're crazy about coffee culture, right? Our quick coffee lasts for at least 3 hours. :) )

We know you'll find your way to the clubs and the parties, but if you're interested in a bit of alternative ways of having fun, if you're into something different, please keep reading.

So here we go!

Movies Under Starlight

We'll start with the Fantastic film festival, which starts on 26th of June & ends on the 7th of July. It focuses on alternative, fantastic movies from around the world. This festival has a mascot called The Invisible Man. You'll notice him for having every inch of his skin covered. But beware, he sometimes forgets people actually see him – so don't be worried if you catch him staring. He's overall quite an interesting guy, a person who creates comic situations wherever he goes. Without him, the festival just wouldn't be the same. :)

Image credit: Fantastic Zagreb Facebook page

Moving on to Summer Cinema Gradec, this is a free walk-in cinema, with excellent live music playing during the breaks and before and after the movies. Beautiful atmosphere, friendly relaxed company, under the open sky. They have a taste for awesome-but-less-known movies you might have missed (hipsters, this is your paradise!!). It starts on the 14th of July!

Screen On The Green might be one of the most popular ones among these listed here. It focuses on popular short films, animated movies, and more A & B list movies chosen by the audience through Facebook and web page voting. Just bring your blanket, snacks and snuggle next to your partner, assemble your crew or come by yourself (you won't be the first or the last one). The chances are the weather will be nice and warm. (But bring anti-mosquito spray just in case.)

 Image credit: Screen On The Green Facebook page

Outside entertainment

If you prefer the bright sunlight rather than the romantic moonlight, we've got something for you as well. If you love jugglers, acrobats and magicians to compete for your attention Cest is d best is the place to be. The entertainers cling to The Jelačić Square, Tomislav's Square, Zrinjevac, all of the central zone that you can easily walk trough without getting too tired. You've missed it this year. It was from June, 1st to June, 10th but try not to miss the next one, the performers will make sure there is something for everyone's taste.

Summer on Stross Square starts on 27th of May and lasts until the 2nd of September. It involves live music in the beautiful ambient in the Uppertown. Stop by anytime to dance with someone special, have a drink or enjoy numerous creative activities that take place there.

So, there you have it, a couple of new places to visit, people to meet and get a new perspective on summer in Zagreb.  Zagreb has plenty of fun summer activities, most of them are even free. And for those who stay in Zagreb, rather than go to the seaside, Zagreb will always have plenty of places to visit and activities to do charming its visitors along the way and making them fall in love all over again.

Header image:  Fantastic Zagreb Facebook page

Author: Zdenka Karaman