Zagreb offers a richly layered history that’s surprisingly easy to explore through a variety of engaging tours. Unlike many European capitals, Zagreb blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences into a compact, walkable city. Its Upper Town is packed with architecture, stories, and panoramic views, making it an ideal setting for history lovers. Among the options, we particularly like the Zagreb: City & History Walking Tour & WW2 Tunnels, which combines a friendly group experience with a visit into the city’s darker past. It’s a great way to see Zagreb’s highlights while learning about its WWII history in a relaxed setting.
Zagreb’s historical tours stand out for their mixture of cultural insight and interactive experiences. Whether you prefer walking through historic streets, exploring underground tunnels, or enjoying gaming nostalgia, there’s a tour that fits your style. Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the best options, each offering a unique look at Zagreb’s past.
1. Zagreb: City & History Walking Tour & WW2 Tunnels
Rated 4.8/5 based on over 1,100 reviews, this tour offers a rundown of Zagreb’s main sights within 2.5 hours. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience with a local guide, exploring everything from Ban Jelačić Square to St Mark’s Church. The highlight is stepping into the Grič Tunnel, a WWII-era underground passage that played a key role during wartime. The tour’s small group format ensures plenty of attention and insightful stories, making history come alive. It also includes iconic stops like the Stone Gate and Market Dolac, giving a well-rounded feel for the city’s development.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of sightseeing and storytelling—you’ll hear anecdotes only locals can share. The relaxed pace and scenic views make it ideal for first-time visitors wanting an authentic feel of Zagreb’s soul. Approximate cost is just $18 per person, which offers excellent value considering the depth of experience. The tour ends at Trg bana Jelačića, perfect for further exploration or a coffee break.
Bottom line: It’s a friendly, detailed tour that balances history, culture, and atmosphere. Best suited for those with limited time but wanting a thorough introduction.
2. Zagreb: Historic Walking Tour with a Local Guide
This 2-hour tour scores a perfect 5/5 from 28 reviews, reflecting its popularity among visitors seeking an authentic city experience. It focuses on Zagreb’s old town and covers essential sights like the funicular, the main street, and the lively upper city. The guide emphasizes not just history but also how modern Zagrebers live today, giving a balanced perspective of past and present.
What makes this tour unique is the short funicular ride, a quick way to experience Zagreb’s transportation history. It’s ideal for travelers who want a fast-paced, informative walk through the heart of the city, with enough storytelling to bring sights to life. It’s also flexible, with no minimum number of participants required, making it accessible for solo travelers or couples.
Priced at $35 per person, it provides a decent value for those wanting a concise overview. The focus on strolling through lively streets and learning about local life makes it especially appealing for history buffs who enjoy cultural context.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers short on time who still want a meaningful glimpse into Zagreb’s streets, history, and daily life.
3. Video Game History Museum Zagreb – VIP Entry Ticket
For those interested in gaming culture, this museum offers a different kind of history—the evolution of video games. With over 3,000 exhibits, including arcade machines, rare consoles, and vintage computers, it’s a treasure trove for game enthusiasts and nostalgic visitors alike. The VIP ticket grants all-day access to explore at your own pace, making it a flexible and immersive experience.
What makes this museum special is how it chronicles the growth of an industry that’s now larger than film and music combined. Visitors can try out playable machines and see the progression from basic pixelated graphics to advanced gaming systems. The museum’s curated collection offers a hands-on history lesson and a glimpse into pop culture phenomena that shaped generations.
At $26 per person, the price is very reasonable for a full-day, interactive visit. It’s especially suitable for families, tech fans, or anyone looking for a fun, nostalgic break from more traditional sightseeing. Reviews mention how engaging and comprehensive the exhibits are, with some calling it a “must-visit for gamers.”
Bottom line: A unique, entertaining way to explore Zagreb’s modern cultural history—ideal if you’re a gaming fan or traveling with kids interested in digital history.
How to Choose the Right Zagreb Historical Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. If you want an all-round, personalized city overview with a focus on WWII history, the Zagreb: City & History Walking Tour & WW2 Tunnels at just $18 is hard to beat. For a short but insightful stroll that combines modern life with history, the Zagreb: Historic Walking Tour offers a quick fix for $35.
If gaming is your passion or you have a day free for something completely different, the Video Game History Museum provides a fun, interactive experience at $26. It’s perfect for tech-savvy travelers or families with kids.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to avoid missing out on these popular tours. Consider your interests—whether it’s underground WWII tunnels, city streets, or vintage gaming—to pick the experience that will make your Zagreb trip most memorable.
Zagreb’s variety of historical tours offers options for every curiosity and schedule. Whether you seek an in-depth look at Zagreb’s WWII history, a quick city stroll, or a nostalgic trip through gaming history, there’s a tour designed for you. For culture and authentic stories, the walking tours shine, and for a dose of fun and technology, the museum delivers. Plan ahead, pick what excites you most, and enjoy discovering Zagreb’s layered past firsthand.