Did you know? The Zagreb Christmas market 2025 has gained international acclaim from CNN, ranking as the best in the world for three consecutive years in the European Best Destinations poll, noted for its enchanting decorations, live music, art installations, and appealing food. Simultaneously, this event is ranked among Europe’s top festive destinations. As this year approaches, it marks the 10th anniversary of the iconic ice rink at King Tomislav Square. It looks like a scene from a storybook in the center of the city. 

Travelers get an opportunity to stroll Zagreb’s streets and squares with thousands of lights. Advent in Zagreb features 25 Christmas markets with nativity scenes, ice sculptures, concerts, pop-up bars, and a Christmas tram with Santa and his elves.

Zagreb Christmas market 2025 includes Vienna, Basel, Strasbourg, Brussels, Prague, Barcelona, Florence, Copenhagen, Tallinn, Stockholm, Helsinki, Budapest, Nuremberg, Berlin, London, Edinburgh, Krakow, Bratislava, Singapore, Toronto, New York, and Chicago. 

Let us dive into the season with the Advent Zagreb Christmas Market 2025, which is expected to be more captivating than ever. This edition is planned to take place from 29th November 2025 to 7th January 2026 with a 40-day celebration that decorates the city into a wonderland. 

Experience the Magic of Zagreb Christmas Market 2025: A Winter Wonderland Awaits!

The Zagreb Christmas market is an event with music and art playing a central role, with this year expecting to organize a rich program of concerts and exhibitions, both indoor and outdoor. Simultaneously, the Zagreb Christmas market 2025 is reserved for children with fun and entertainment activities for children. 

Zagreb Christmas market 2025 is a feast with food stalls serving traditional treats, inventive dishes from top chefs, and drinks. 

As it is noted that the Christmas market will start in late November, you will see some of the city’s best spots; some are as follows:

Ban Jelacic Square

This square is the epicenter of Zagreb Christmas Market 2025, featuring a main stage with live performances and a grand Christmas tree. Local singers and bands, including Psihomodo Pop and Songkillers, will perform every Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 10 PM.

European Square (Europski Trg) 

It is next to Ban Jelacic Square with food stalls catering to different tastes, from traditional Croatian delicacies to international street food. Simultaneously, it is a great place for souvenirs like honey, lavender, chocolate with homemade rakija (a strong Croatian spirit), and a sestine umbrella with Fritule Mix.

Zrinjevac Park—TOP LOCAL PICK!

This is a must-see Advent location with a tasteful collection of stalls offering street food, hot wine, and open-air performances from local bands and artists. Simultaneously, there are wonderful photo opportunities to capture the park’s ornate fountains with twinkling Advent lights. 

Ice skating at King Tomislav Square

This square is famous for hosting the Ice Park, which is famous among skaters and kids of all ages. It has an ice skating rink with market stalls serving piping hot mulled wine and street food. 

Giant Ferris wheel at Park dr. Franje Tudmana

It is a venue for the winter park with a 36-meter-high Zagreb Eye Ferris wheel and 21 other rides suitable for both adults and kids. The park is open from 14:00 to 21:00 from Monday to Friday and 11:00 to 22:00 on Saturday and Sunday. 

So why wait? Apply for an online Croatia visa from London RIGHT AWAY!

Zagreb Christmas Market 2025: Food and Drinks You Must Try

Zagreb Christmas Market 2025: Food and Drinks You Must Try

The Zagreb Christmas market 2025 provides a mix of traditional Croatian recipes with other European festive favorites. You can visit the central green market to see the restaurants run by families. 

If you are visiting Croatia, it is a perfect place to try the Croatian food and drinks; some are mentioned below:

Kuhano Vino (Mulled Wine)

It is a very famous traditional drink infused with aromatic spices and a pinch of citrus. 

Strukli

It is a pastry that is famous in Croatia, filled with fresh cheese, eggs, and sour cream. 

Fritule

They are sugar doughnuts often infused with a touch of brandy and citrus zest. 

Medenjaci 

These are honey cookies with a delightful mix of sweet and spice. 

Where to Stay for the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025

It is recommended to stay close to the main Advent attractions. Here are some of the best hotels to stay at during your visit to Zagreb

1- Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

The hotel is beautiful with a dedicated kissing point for couples. This year, the hotel is hosting its own “fuliranje” Advent market on the Oleander terrace with gourmet street food by Michelin-starred chef Ana Grgic Tomic. 

2- The Westin Zagreb

This is a luxurious property with spacious rooms with facilities such as a spa, gymnasium, and upscale dining options. Simultaneously, they have special “heavenly beds” that make sure to provide maximum comfort and a good sleep. 

3- Hotel Jagerhorn

It is known to be the most festive place to stay in town. The hotel becomes a Christmas postcard with twinkling lights and decorations. Simultaneously, you can enjoy the cute little Advent market inside the hotel in their private garden and courtyard. 

4- Pod Zidom

This is a medium-sized hotel with clean and comfortable rooms close to Upper Town and just a few hundred metres away from the main city square, Ban Jelacic. It is a perfect location for exploring the Zagreb Christmas market 2025. 

5- Swanky Mint

Tourists with a budget can stay at this hostel, as this is one of our favorite Zagreb hostels with modern design and a fun social atmosphere.

Therefore, plan and get your Croatia visa appointment UK and celebrate Christmas in the heart of Europe’s most beautiful market.

Other Attractions to Enjoy During the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025

Experiences beyond the Zagreb Christmas market 2025, with keeping a few extra days, are as follows: 

1- Zagreb Old Town

Visit the streets and explore its rich history and cultural attractions, including the famous landmarks and museums. Simultaneously, visit the cafes along Tkalciceva Street to savor the authentic taste with cozy bars. 

2- Museum of Broken Relationships

Experience a unique and moving journey through symbolic objects that foster catharsis, reflection, and shared humanity, depicting the emotional aftermath of a breakup.

3- Day trips

Visit the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park for its beauty, including 16 terraced lakes and cascading waterfalls over turquoise waters that are connected by a network of scenic boardwalks. Moreover, it comes under the UNESCO World Heritage Site, thereby offering breathtaking landscapes. 

You can also visit the medieval town of Samobor, famous for its cakes and charm, with its natural scenery surrounding Zumberak and Samoborsko gorje nature park, making it a great opportunity for activities such as hiking. 

These activities complement the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025, and make sure to explore beyond the festivities and market to enjoy with friends and families. 

Local Tips for Visiting Zagreb Christmas Market 2025

Here are some pointers to make the best of your Christmas holiday with a few essential travel tips, some are as follows:

1- Best time to visit

The best time to visit is weekday evenings for fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere. Firstly, in December, the temperature ranges from 0 to 7 degrees Celsius and can drop below freezing point at night with a strong chance of snowfall. Secondly, January tends to be colder, with an average temperature ranging from 1 to 5 degrees Celsius. 

2- Currency Used

Major stalls accept cards, but it is recommended to carry some Croatian kuna and euros for other purposes. 

3- Transportation

All major locations in Advent are closed, but if necessary, you can use the efficient train network. 

4- What to Pack

It is recommended to pack warm clothes such as layers, scarves, and gloves as temperatures drop below 0 degrees Celsius. Simultaneously, don’t forget to add a waterproof coat or umbrella with hand warmers in case of rain. 

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Final words

The Zagreb Christmas Market 2025 promises warmth and joy with unforgettable moments. Whether you’re skating under the stars, shopping for handcrafted gifts, or sipping wine in Zrinjevac Park, experience everything and more that adds to the wonder of this winter festival. 

Therefore, plan your trip, explore the heart of Croatia, and let your holidays be filled with sparkle and spirit with your Croatia Schengen visa from the UK

FAQs

1- When does the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025 start and end?

The Zagreb Christmas Market 2025 will start from 29th November to 7th January 2026. During this time, the city is filled with lights, music, and a festive spirit. UK residents visiting Croatia are expected to check the exact dates before participating in the festival.

2- Where is the Christmas market 2025 located?

The Zagreb Christmas Market 2025 happens in different locations across the city. A few of the main spots include Ban Jelacic Square, Zrinjevac Park, European Square, and King Tomislav Square. From live concerts to food stalls and ice skating, each location offers a unique festival theme.

3- What can I do at the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025?

UK residents can explore different stalls, handcrafted gifts with ornaments, and traditional treats of Croatia. Simultaneously, take part in different activities such as ice skating, live music, light shows, street performances, and more.

4- What is the temperature in Croatia at the Zagreb Christmas Market 2025?

From December to January, the temperature ranges from 5 to 8 degrees Celsius, with some freezing nights with temperatures reaching 0 degrees Celsius or lower.

5- How many days does it take for the Croatia Schengen visa from the UK to get processed?

Normally, the Croatia visa processing time takes around 2 weeks after finishing all the formalities at the visa centre. However, delays are very common in such cases; therefore, it is recommended to keep at least 4 to 6 weeks in hand before your travel dates.