There’s a cause Zagreb retains turning up on the world’s “must-visit at Christmas” lists — and this yr, it’s accomplished it once more. Featured by NCS Travel as considered one of the finest Christmas markets in the world for 2025, the Croatian capital’s Advent in Zagreb is quick changing into a festive legend.
Spread throughout 25 themed markets and squares, the metropolis transforms right into a glowing winter wonderland the place carols, mulled wine, and twinkling lights fill the crisp December air. Once voted “Best Christmas Market in Europe” three years in a row by European Best Destinations, Zagreb’s Advent continues to outshine larger and extra well-known cities with its heat, creativity, and unmistakable Croatian spirit.
More Than a Market — It’s a Citywide Celebration
From Ban Jelačić Square to Zrinjevac Park, each nook of Zagreb bursts with festive power. Visitors can wander by way of stalls promoting handmade crafts and native delicacies, watch stay Nativity scenes, marvel at ice sculpture carvings, or take a spin on the Christmas tram, full with Santa and his cheerful elves.
For those that choose their holidays with a facet of rhythm, the metropolis’s iconic Fuliranje zone — actually that means “fooling around” — is the coronary heart of the enjoyable. Expect avenue meals, craft cocktails, DJs, and spontaneous dancing, as locals and guests alike flip Advent into an open-air celebration.
A Festive Season That Lasts
This yr’s Advent in Zagreb runs from November 29, 2025, to January 7, 2026, filling the metropolis with greater than a month of live shows, decorations, markets, and family-friendly sights. The scent of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts, and freshly baked fritule (mini doughnuts) fills the air, whereas the mushy glow of lanterns lights up the metropolis’s cobbled streets.
For travellers who crave authenticity over crowds, Zagreb affords a refreshingly native tackle Christmas, mixing previous traditions with fashionable pleasure. Unlike a few of Europe’s mega-markets, Zagreb’s attraction lies in its intimacy — it feels much less like a present, and extra like becoming a member of in a neighbourhood celebration.
Zagreb’s Global Recognition
“Advent in Zagreb proves that magic doesn’t only belong to the big capitals,” NCS wrote, noting its distinctive mix of craft markets, gastronomy, and group spirit. It stands shoulder-to-shoulder with international icons similar to Vienna, Strasbourg, and New York, however with the added bonus of Croatian hospitality and attraction.
@pieceofvoyage 42 extra days✨???? Tag somebody who must take you to Zagreb Christmas Market! ????️November 30, 2024 – January 7, 2025 #zagrebadvent #zagreb #christmasmarket #advent #croatia ♬ All Alone on Christmas – Darlene Love