Zagreb viewpoints as attractions

Belvedere, Maksimir

The Belvedere is the central building in Maksimir Park, also known as the Kiosk. Located on a hill at the end of the central path, it is the most prominent building, the starting point of all other paths. The park’s main parts are grouped around it. The Belvedere is 17 meters high, with a porch on the ground floor, a large terrace on the first floor and a smaller one on the third. It represents an ideal coulisse for the staging of scenes for the film industry. That’s why the cult classic 'Tko pjeva zlo ne misli' (One Song a Day Takes Mischief Away), one of the most famous Croatian movies, was filmed here in 1970.

Image credit: Archives of the Public Institution "Maksimir"

Sljeme, Mount Medvednica

Let’s go to Sljeme! The citizens were able to enjoy the view from Sljeme for the first time in 1870 when the forest on its top was completely cut down. The same year, a German surveyor Nitzl brought two Zagreb salesmen to Sljeme. They loved the view from the mountain so much that they decided to build a solid wooden pyramid on its top. Although just 4 meters high, the small pyramid was the first construction in the history of Croatian hiking! In 1889, it was replaced by a 12-meter-high iron observation tower. The new tower was supposed to be a paradise for visitors who wanted to enjoy distant views, with an elevator that would take them 81 meters up to an open observation deck or to a café on a lower level, offering a 360-degree panoramic view. Unfortunately, the tower was open for visitors for only two years. Later on, the visitors had to be satisfied “just” with the view of Zagorje from the belvedere on the top of the mountain. The belvedere terrace is located right above the ski slopes, yet another must-see attraction on Mount Medvednica.

Image credit: PP Medvednica

Lotrščak Tower

Lotrščak Tower is one of the symbols of Zagreb. Located in Gradec, it is one of the tourists' favorites.  It was erected in the Middle Ages, at the southern entrance into the old town, once known as the small gate of Dverce. In 1812, when the danger of Tatars' onslaughts subsided and the gate lost its defense role, it was pulled down. The adjacent tower Lotrščak was named after the bell (campana latrunculorum or the thief bell) which was sounded in the evening before the city gates closed, and the tower itself assumed its present day appearance in the 19th century. The tower is made of irregular stones, and the thickness of the walls is 195 cm. A wide groin vault on the ground floor is still preserved. The fourth floor was made of bricks, and the walls are significantly thinner. An interesting fact in the history of the Lotrščak Tower is that when the town had no money for the repairs and maintenance, they would lease it to the citizens making the maintenance their obligation, and in case of enemy attacks, they would be required to give it back to the city for defense. There is one more thing: Strossmayer's Promenade, right at the doorstep of Lotrščak Tower, is still where the Summer At Stross Festival takes place and provides happenings and late night entertainment every day.

Image credit: Documentation Klović yard, Damil Kalogjera

Vertigo Bar, Antunović Hotel

Vertigo Bar is located at the top of Antunović Hotel, in a rotating glass dome which offers an unforgettable panoramic view of Zagreb. The glass elevator takes you to the bar where - apart from the spectacular views - you can find a large selection of cocktails, wines, brandies and best cigars. Opening hours: every day from 10 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Image credit: Vladimir Vidmar, Hotel Antunović Zagreb

Zagreb Eye

Zagreb Eye is an viewpoint in the heart of the Croatian capital. Located at Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb, on the 16th floor - at the very top of the Zagreb Skyscraper, 1 Ilica Street, it offers a unique view of Ban Jelačić Square, Kaptol, Gradec, Upper and Lower Town, and the most important historical buildings in Zagreb, its squares, streets and parks. On a clear day, you can enjoy views of Moslavina hills to the east, and Žumberak hills and Slovenia to the west.

The Zagreb Skyscraper, or Ilica Skyscraper, was built between 1957 and 1959. At the time of its opening, it was the tallest and most modern building in the former Yugoslavia. For thirty years, it was called the Špica – the center of social events and the favorite place for first romantic meetings, dance parties, panoramic views of the city and coffee breaks.
The Zagreb Eye observation deck is open to public every day of the year from 10 a.m. until midnight, regardless of the weather and the season. It is also accessible to persons with disabilities. It is pet-friendly, and pets are always welcome. Ticket price for adults is 20 kn, for children aged 3 and over 10 kn, and groups can get special discount on ticket price. The ticket purchased throughout the day can be used for sightseeing at night, but it is non-transferable. Free Wi-Fi is available to all visitors.

Image credit: Ivona Tomic

Header image credit: Mario Poje Photography

Author: Sanja Kočiš