Plus our new favourite video of Zagreb winter wonderland

We've been to Zagreb during winter, we've written about it, we've enjoyed every minute of it, and it is a pleasure to see so much international recognition for the great amount of work which has been put into turning Zagreb into one of the best Christmas destinations in Europe.

Daily Express UK published a very extensive of "Must see" things in Zagreb in winter in its article Top things to do in Zagreb: The Croatian city is turned into dazzling winter wonderland.

Felicity Thistlewhite writes:

"If you’re bored of Bratwurst in Berlin and Pretzels in Prague, the next place on the trendy list of 'must-visit' cities is Zagreb. With its unforgettable Christmas markets the city easily rivals the most famous festive European destinations. 

A variety of activities will be on offer including an antiques fair, a gastro day, movie showings and even Christmas baubles blowing. 

Here are the top recommendations for a fabulous advent weekend in Zagreb from Croatia's National Tourist Board. 

Stroll around the Christmas Fairs of Zagreb

Many of Zagreb’s streets and squares will be packed with Christmas food stalls and souvenir vendors, with the main gathering of stalls at Ban Josip Jelacic, the city’s main square.

You’ll be able to warm yourself up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate, whilst you stroll around stalls showing the works of local craft workers and visit the surrounding shops to pick up souvenirs, some inspired by Croatian folklore, popular art or local treats.

If you’re shopping for presents you’ll be guaranteed to find beautiful and original gifts at Zagreb´s Christmas promenades. Also, don’t miss a visit to the famous Bogoviceva street and its impressive Christmas lights.

Enjoy musical treats

During December Zagreb hosts a variety of concerts and musical offerings, including performances by children´s choirs and music bands to help create a special festive atmosphere.

You’ll be able to listen to a hand-picked musical programme, including Christmas classics and traditional waltz music all over the city centre, with the highlights being the concerts hosted at the National Theatre – which is worth a visit alone to see the impressive building.

The neo-baroque architectural masterpiece was built in the late 19th century and is definitely worth visiting during your stay in Zagreb. On Advent Sundays you can listen to classical concerts from their balcony but make sure you see inside as well. The concerts start at 7pm.

Try traditional Croatian Food

Croatia is known for its hearty food, perfect for keeping you warm in cold December. Pe?enka (roasted pig on a spit), sarma (Cabbage Rolls), kobasice (sausages), mulled wine and other enticing treats are all a must-try.

Ban Josip Jelacic Square, Petar Preradovic Square known as “Flower Square” or Dolac market will all be hosting parts of the Christmas fair offering a wide range of local and traditional menus.

Dolac particularly is worth a visit if you’re feeling hungry as it’s known as the belly of the city - a place where you can buy home-made delicacies as well as fresh fruit and vegetables.

Zrinjevac

If you are not totally stuffed by Christmas treats by now, the smell of fried apples, and baked štrukle will lure you to Zrinjevac Park. It is part of Lenuci's (a forward thinking urban planner) Green Horseshoe project, which was conceived in 1882.

The project consist of multiple parks and squares in the shape of a horseshoe which are particularly attractive when covered with snow. In Advent season Zrinjevac plays a major part of the advent fair and is festively decorated.  

Warm yourself up at the numerous stands aligning the park promenade, whilst you listen to Christmas music being played on the bandstands.

You can read the rest of the article HERE

After this great recommendation, here at Total Croatia News we will just add our favourite Advent in Zagreb video Colour your Christmas with Zagreb...and if that doesn't get you on the next plane, bus, train, car, bike to Zagreb.....