I’ve lived in Zagreb my whole life, so part of my experience of what I love about raising kids here is just home being home. Zagreb’s biggest advantage as a place to raise a family is that you get a real capital city, with museums, playgrounds, and year-round events for kids, and yet some of…
Terme Tuhelj is one of Croatia’s most popular water parks for families. It sits in Zagorje county, just 45-60 minutes from Zagreb, making it an easy day trip whether you live nearby or you’re visiting Croatia and want a break from sightseeing with the kids. Terme Olimia in Slovenia is about 30 minutes further, but…
When I was a kid, I visited Medvedgrad only once and the only thing I remember is a plate of hot štrukli from the little restaurant inside the fortress. Funny how childhood memories work. I can still feel that specific taste. That restaurant is long gone, but Medvedgrad is absolutely still worth the trip. Especially…
Sljeme holds a special place in my heart. As a Zagreb local, this mountain has been part of my family’s life for as long as I can remember and now it’s part of my kids’ lives too. What makes it so special for Zagreb visitors and families is the distance. You can be in the…
Zagreb Zoo is one of those places that earns its spot on the Zagreb-with-kids list. Not because it’s flashy, but because it’s fun and practical for several reasons. Well-maintained, stroller-friendly, and tucked inside Maksimir Park, it makes for an easy, rewarding day out. Here’s everything you need to know before you go. Zagreb Zoo Is…
Growing up just a short walk from Maksimir, I somehow convinced myself it was a once-a-year destination. In Croatia, the 1st of May (when we’re celebrating Labor Day) is when Zagreb families go to the park: parades, live music, balloons, ice cream, and so much more. As a little girl with a backyard of my…
If you grew up in Zagreb, you almost certainly know this place by its old name, Pionirac. For older Zagreb people, just hearing it triggers the smell of pine and the chaos of fifty kids running between wooden pavilions. For younger families and expats, Grad mladih Zagreb is still largely off the radar. Which is…
A few years ago I was in Rome, completely exhausted after hours of walking with an Italian friend. When he suggested we stop for coffee I was relieved. Finally, a moment to sit down and relax. Two small espresso cups arrived. Forty seconds later he was back on his feet. Ready to go. I hadn’t…
If you just landed at Zagreb Airport with a car seat, a carry-on, and a toddler who has already asked “are we there yet?” three times, take a breath. TL;DR: The Zagreb Transport “Cheat Sheet” I’ve been navigating this city with small children for over six years as a mum and ten years as a…
If you’re planning a family trip to Croatia, here’s my advice: don’t skip Zagreb. I know. Everyone wants to rush to the coast or make a beeline for Dubrovnik. As a Zagreb mom raising two girls, a six-year-old and a one-year-old, I think that skipping our capital means you’re only seeing the vacation version of…
