Zagreb: City and WWII Tunnels Walking Tour

If you’re considering a guided walk through Zagreb, this tour offers a blend of history, local flavor, and impressive views. Promoted as a comprehensive introduction to Croatia’s capital, it’s a popular choice with a stellar 4.9-star rating based on over a thousand reviews. While it’s a short tour—about two and a half hours—you’ll cover key sights and learn more about Zagreb’s layered past, from its historic streets to secret underground tunnels.

What we love about this experience is how knowledgeable guides bring the city’s stories to life, often with humor and personal touches. Plus, the stunning vistas from Gri Hill and the chance to walk through WWII tunnels are genuinely memorable. The only point for consideration is that some attractions, like the WWII tunnels and funicular, are temporarily closed for renovations, which means some parts of the original itinerary might not be available at all times. Nevertheless, it’s a fantastic way for first-time visitors to get oriented and gain new insights.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, local culture, and scenic views without spending a fortune. If you enjoy walking, engaging guides, and authentic experiences, you’ll find this tour both informative and fun. It’s especially good for those eager to explore Zagreb’s core and uncover stories that bring the city’s streets to life.

This experience made our article of The 11 Best City Tours In Zagreb.

Key Points

Great value at $19 per person for a guided introduction to Zagreb’s highlights.
Insightful guides who share engaging stories and local tips.
Includes scenic views and underground tunnels that reveal Zagreb’s more recent history.
Convenient walk through the city’s main sights, with optional funicular ride (when operational).
Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour operates in all weather conditions, so you can plan regardless of the forecast.

This walking tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into Zagreb, combining historical sites, local neighborhoods, and panoramic views—serving as a perfect primer for your visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Zrinjevac Park

The tour kicks off in front of Zagreb’s famous Zrinjevac Park, known for its lush greenery and classic European charm. It’s a lively spot perfect for selfies and photos, and it sets a relaxed tone. From here, you’ll stroll toward Bogovićeva Street, famed for its vibrant bars and cafes—a lively area that hints at Zagreb’s contemporary culture.

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Ban Jelačić Square and Zagreb Cathedral

Next, your guide will lead you across Ban Jelačić Square, the heart of Zagreb’s city life. It’s a bustling hub that’s steeped in history and always full of local activity. Nearby, the Zagreb Cathedral awaits—an impressive Gothic structure and a symbol of the city. The guide will share stories about its architecture and importance, making the visit more meaningful.

Dolac Farmers Market and WWII Tunnels

Following the cathedral, you walk through Dolac Market, a lively spot where locals buy fresh produce and crafts. It’s a true taste of local life, and a nice contrast to Zagreb’s historic streets. Then, you’ll venture into the WWII tunnels—hidden underground passages that tell a different part of Zagreb’s story. These tunnels, which have been preserved and are now open to visitors, offer a fascinating glimpse into wartime defenses and the city’s resilience.

Many reviews highlight this part as a must-see: “The war tunnels are a must-see and a good respite from the heat at this time of year,” says a recent traveler, emphasizing their cool, subterranean atmosphere and historical significance.

The Funicular (When Operating) and Gri Hill

A highlight is the ride on the smallest funicular in the world—a charming, quick lift up to Gri Hill. Although renovations have put the funicular out of service until March 2026, the walk up offers stunning views of Zagreb’s rooftops and spires. From Gri Hill, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the cityscape, perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere of Zagreb’s medieval core.

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Upper Town (Gradec) and Tkalčićeva Street

Descending from Gri Hill, you arrive at Gradec, the upper town—a picturesque area filled with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. It’s a lively neighborhood where you can soak up the local ambiance and perhaps enjoy a snack or drink.

The tour wraps up in Tkalčićeva Street, famous for its lively bars and eateries. Many reviews commend guides for their local tips here, making it a good spot to relax after the walk. The entire experience ends back at Ban Jelačić Square, ready for you to continue exploring on your own.

This tour offers much more than just a list of sights. It’s about understanding Zagreb’s layered history—from the medieval streets to the underground WWII tunnels—and getting your bearings before heading deeper into the city. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. Multiple reviews mention guides like Robert, Marco, Eva, and Lucia as being engaging, attentive, and passionate about Zagreb.

The price point—$19—makes this a highly accessible option for most travelers. For that, you get a guided walk, insider tips, and a glimpse into some of Zagreb’s most interesting sites. When the funicular is in operation, it adds a charming touch, but even without it, the tour remains a good value. Note that food and drinks are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local cafes afterward.

The tour’s length—about 2.5 hours—is perfect for a quick orientation, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Large groups are common, but guides manage well, according to reviews, ensuring everyone stays engaged.

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What to Expect on the Walk

Expect a leisurely pace, with plenty of opportunities for photos and questions. The meeting point in front of the Meteorological station is easy to find, and the tour ends conveniently back at the same spot. The itinerary is flexible in practice, but keep in mind that some attractions—like the WWII tunnels and funicular—might be closed during renovations, so it’s good to check ahead.

The Value of Guided Tours Like This

Many travelers find that a guided tour like this provides unmatched context and stories you’d miss exploring alone. “Our guide, Robert, was a great storyteller, making history fun and memorable,” shares a recent review. The mix of walking, scenic views, and underground history makes for an engaging experience that appeals to all ages.

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a rundown without feeling rushed. History buffs will appreciate the WWII tunnels and the stories they evoke. Those who enjoy scenic viewpoints will be pleased with the Gri Hill vistas. And anyone interested in local life and architecture will find the stops along the way both charming and insightful.

If you’re after a cost-effective, well-guided introduction to Zagreb’s core, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s also flexible enough for those who might want to extend their exploration afterward, especially in lively neighborhoods like Tkalčićeva or around Ban Jelačić Square.

This Zagreb: City and WWII Tunnels Walking Tour offers excellent value for a modest price, combining history, local flavor, and sightseeing in one well-paced experience. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge help bring the city’s streets and underground passages to life, making it a memorable introduction to Zagreb.

It’s well-suited for travelers who enjoy guided walks, scenic views, and authentic stories. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a first-time visitor, or someone simply looking to orient yourself in the city, this tour will give you a solid foundation—and maybe inspire you to explore even further afterward.

While some attractions may be temporarily closed, the core experience remains rewarding, with plenty of memorable moments and insights. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Zagreb’s character and a handful of great tips for your stay.

Is this tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. It’s a good idea to dress accordingly, especially if rain is forecast.

What happens if the WWII tunnels or funicular are closed?
The tour still goes ahead, but the part involving the WWII tunnels or funicular ride may be skipped or replaced, depending on the day. It’s best to check in advance.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, making it a perfect quick intro to Zagreb.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, giving you the freedom to enjoy local cafes and eateries on your own.

Is it suitable for kids?
Most likely yes, especially if your kids enjoy walking and stories. However, the underground tunnels might be less appealing for very young children.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling details should be checked with the tour provider.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for most international travelers.

Is the tour good for solo travelers?
Definitely. Guided tours are a great way to meet fellow travelers and enjoy a shared experience.

This tour offers a friendly, practical way to get to know Zagreb—history, views, and local stories rolled into one accessible package. Whether you’re on a short trip or want a solid foundation for exploring further, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Croatian itinerary.