Park Maksimir

Park Maksimir is Zagreb’s oldest public park, opened in 1794, and a spacious green retreat east of the city centre. Follow paths through oak woodland and meadows, pause beside its five lakes, or look for birds, ducks and turtles. The Zagreb Zoo is inside the park, and cafés and restaurants provide places to stop along the way. Come for a quiet walk, a run or a picnic; the lakes are especially attractive in the evening. Tram lines 11 and 12 connect the park with the central square.

A public park since 1794

Park Maksimir opened to the public in 1794, when it was created as a large green space for Zagreb’s residents. The city has since grown around it, leaving the park within Zagreb’s northeastern urban area. It remains one of the city’s main places to walk and spend time outdoors.

The park was laid out in an English garden style, combining open lawns and meadows with wooded areas, water and winding routes. Its long history is visible in the old trees and in the buildings set among the greenery. The park is open around the clock, so you can fit a walk into different parts of the day.

Lakes, woodland and wildlife

Five artificial lakes sit among the park’s woods and meadows, linked by smaller streams and paths. The lakes give you an easy route to follow, with places to pause and watch the water. Ducks and turtles can be seen around the lakes, while the wider park provides habitat for many kinds of birds and other wildlife.

For a quieter walk, leave the broad routes and explore the less-used paths. The deeper, more natural sections feel different from the lawns and main promenades. Some paths have loose stones, and fallen trees can affect access in places, so sturdy shoes are useful if you plan to wander beyond the main routes.