The Museum of Contemporary Art is in Novi Zagreb, at Avenija Dubrovnik 17, south of the Sava River. Its collection brings together Croatian and international art, including paintings, photographs, sculpture, film and video. Exhibitions can be playful, puzzling or challenging, so the museum suits visitors curious about contemporary work more than those seeking traditional displays alone. Look out for Carsten Höller’s Double Slide, which runs from the museum’s upper floors to the ground level. The building itself, designed by Igor Franić, is also part of the visit.
From a city collection to a new building
The museum’s history began in 1954, when Zagreb’s contemporary art collection was established in the Upper Town. As the collection grew beyond its original galleries, a new building was planned. Croatian architect Igor Franić designed the present museum, which opened in 2009 in Novi Zagreb, south of the Sava River.
Franić’s building has a minimalist exterior and a flexible interior shaped around a winding route. The circulation is not immediately straightforward, which gives the visit a sense of discovery as you move between galleries. Its scale and design are part of the experience, not simply a neutral setting for the art.
What you will find in the galleries
The collection covers Croatian and international art from the 20th century onward. Paintings, photographs and sculpture sit alongside installations, films and video works. The displays include both permanent collection material and temporary exhibitions, so the selection changes over time. Some works are accessible at a glance; others leave room for interpretation or may challenge what you expect a museum to show.
The permanent collection includes work by Croatian artists, with international artists also represented. Exhibition texts are available in Croatian and English. If you want more context for a particular work, staff may be able to provide insight or lead a guided tour. Ask at the museum about tours during your visit, since their availability is not specified here.
The Double Slide and hands-on art
Carsten Höller’s Double Slide is an art installation designed to be used. It descends from an upper floor to the ground level, ending outside near the parking area. The slide gives the museum a playful finish, but it is also a piece of the collection, so take time to consider it as part of the exhibition rather than only as a way down.
Some activities invite visitors to make sculptures that can be added to an exhibition. This hands-on element can give younger visitors a way into contemporary art, and it offers a different kind of encounter from looking at works in the galleries. Ask whether an activity is running on the day; availability depends on the museum’s programme.
Plan your visit
Allow two to three hours to see the displays at a comfortable pace. A weekday visit is a practical choice if you would prefer fewer people around. The museum is at Avenija Dubrovnik 17 in Novi Zagreb, outside the central city area. It is reachable by tram; tram 6 towards Sopot is one route described for the journey from the main square, with a trip of about 30 minutes.
The museum has a restaurant, restrooms and wheelchair-accessible entrance, restroom and parking. Check the museum website for its current exhibition programme and practical updates before setting out. The museum is closed on Mondays.
FAQ
Where is the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb?
It is at Avenija Dubrovnik 17 in Novi Zagreb, south of the Sava River. Tram 6 towards Sopot is one route from the main square; the journey takes about 30 minutes.
How long should I plan for the museum?
Allow about two to three hours to explore the museum.
Can you ride the slide at the museum?
Yes. Carsten Höller’s Double Slide runs from an upper floor to the ground level and exits outside near the parking area.
Is the Museum of Contemporary Art suitable for children?
The museum is listed as suitable for children and has interactive art activities at times. Ask whether sculpture-making is available during your visit.
