Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia. It sits in a very special spot where Central Europe meets the Mediterranean and the Balkans. The city’s shape is defined by two very different things. To the north, there is a big mountain called Medvednica. To the south, there is a flat plain with the Sava River. So, the dividing line between the mountain and the river plain is Zagreb’s main square and main street, Ilica.
Historically city evolved on hills at the foot of the mountain, developing two distinct medieval settlements, Kaptol and Gradec. These two settlements unified and created the City of Zagreb. Later in the 19th century city expanded into the Sava River plain.
If you want to explore Zagreb’s Old Town, prepare for some hiking up and down the historical hills. But not all Zagreb attractions are in the city center. Many of Zagreb’s best attractions are on the Medvednica mountain. The mountain is a protected nature park, and is within the city limits.