Winter in Zagreb - A Splash of Romance and Whole Lot of Love
Some might think Valentine’s Day is the most romantic day of the year, but Christmas time is definitely the most magical period of the year in the city of Zagreb. With fairy lights twinkling above your head while strolling down the street, holding your lover’s hand to warm it up, you’ll be consumed with blossoming fuzzy feelings inside of you. Streets that are filled with holiday songs serve as an enchanting scenery just waiting to provide you with special memories of the most romantic date nights which will be remembered by gingerbread cookies, mulled wine and a well-known smell of roasted chestnuts.
A walk to remember
To start your truly romantic experience in Zagreb, I suggest taking your date ice skating at Tomislav’s park across Central Railway station. Take them by their hand and enjoy the ride with Christmas carols playing in the background. While twirling around on ice, you can look at decorations on old buildings surrounding the park, gaze at the night sky to catch a falling star and simply admire atmosphere around you.
Your appetite might build up because little wooden houses placed around Tomislav’s park offer delicious treats so, to warm yourself up after ice skating, sit on a bench somewhere near and share a quick meal with your date or simply buy them apple and cinnamon tea while discussing your ice skating moves.
Image Credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Julien Duval
Once you’re warm and cosy, move a bit further and see a concert at Zrinjevac park or ask them to dance with you while there. Also, you can watch a puppet show if you prefer to share a laugh rather than show them your waltzing skills. You’ll see many locals there selling souvenirs, fritule with chocolate dressing and Christmas cards so be sure to check those out, as well. Depending on what attracts you more, you can take a little trip down a memory lane with your date, sharing your past holiday experiences with them while choosing cards to send out to your family members.
Winter wonderland
If you’re searching for more unusual date ideas, head out to Europe’s Square where throughout all of December you can find many urban festivities such as cultural exhibitions of young artists, movie projections and music programs. Swing around while taking a sip of mulled wine, enjoying the smell of clove and cinnamon and treat yourself to new cultural experiences.
For a funkier date night, put on your best dancing shoes and forget about the cold because the atmosphere at Fuliranje in Tomiceva and Kurelceva Streets is on fire. Fuliranje is one of the best programs in Zagreb during Advent where you’ll be taken on a special gastronomical journey thanks to the best Croatian chefs who will prepare unique meals for visitors. Moreover, you can delight your date with food AND fun because Fuliranje is special for its musical numbers which include disco music for those who want to warm up with groovy 70s music: Marvin Gaye, Bee Gees and Studio 54 are just some of the famous names you’ll be able to hear playing while you’re there.
Image Credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Julien Duval
Whatever option you choose, to finish your perfect romantic day in Zagreb, take a short, but sweet ride with funicular to reach Upper Town and amaze your date with a breathtaking view of the city. Who knows, maybe if you’re lucky, the snow will start falling right when you kiss under the mistletoe just like it happens in the movies. Everything is possible, especially when Zagreb is covered in Christmas pixie dust during winter time.
Header Image Credit: Zagreb Tourist Board, Igor Nobilo
Author: Paula Bracko