Zagreb: City and WWII Tunnels Walking Tour

Zagreb: City and WWII Tunnels Walking Tour Review

Exploring Zagreb on foot is one of the best ways to get to know this charming Croatian capital. This guided walking tour, offered by Pathfinder Tours, combines classic city sights with an intriguing visit underground, showcasing Zagreb’s resilience and layered history. Priced at only $19 per person, it promises an affordable way to see the highlights, learn about the city’s past, and enjoy some stunning views along the way.

What really makes this tour stand out is the chance to walk through WWII tunnels—hidden passages that tell a story of survival and ingenuity. Plus, the inclusion of a ride on the world’s smallest funicular and panoramic views from Gri Hill add special touches that elevate the experience. However, a key point to keep in mind is that the funicular is currently closed for renovations until March 2026, so you’ll want to check before your booking if this aspect is important to you.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, first-time visitors wanting an overview, or travelers who enjoy city walks that blend culture, history, and scenic vistas. It’s also perfect if you’re looking for an affordable and well-organized introduction to Zagreb’s highlights, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and get local insights.

Key Points

• Affordable Exploration: At $19, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the inclusion of the funicular ticket (when operational) and a knowledgeable licensed guide.
• Rich Mix of Sights: From the lively Zrinjevac Park and the historic Zagreb Cathedral to the underground WWII tunnels, the experience hits a good balance of outdoors, history, and panoramic views.
• Guides Who Make the Difference: Multiple reviews praise guides like Iva, Robert, Lucia, Marco, and Marko for their knowledge, humor, and passion, which greatly enhances the tour.
• Comfortable Pacing and Group Size: The tour’s 2.5–3 hour duration means it’s an energetic but manageable walk, with attentive guides who respond well to questions and individual needs.
• Weather-Dependent but Still Valuable: Operating in all weather conditions, this tour can be a good choice year-round, though certain attractions like the WWII tunnels and funicular may be temporarily closed.
• Authentic Local Experience: The route includes popular local spots like Ban Jelacic Square, Dolac Market, and Tkalciceva Street, giving a true taste of Zagreb’s vibe and culture.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Starting at Zagreb’s famous Zrinjevac Park, the tour immediately immerses you in the city’s lively atmosphere. This park is not only a beautiful green space but also a perfect photo-op spot—hot tip from reviewers who loved snapping selfies here. From there, the route takes you along Bogovieva Street, known for its buzzing bars and cafes, hinting at Zagreb’s vibrant social scene.

Next up is Ban Jelacic Square, the city’s main hub. Here, the tour naturally includes the historic Zagreb Cathedral—an iconic Gothic structure that anchors the city’s skyline. Although the review mentions that some attractions might be temporarily closed or under renovation, guides tend to compensate by sharing compelling stories and historical anecdotes, making the experience still worthwhile.

A highlight for many travelers is Dolac Market, often called the “belly of Zagreb.” Walking through this bustling farmers market offers insights into local produce, foods, and everyday Croatian life. It’s also a great spot to ask your guide about regional flavors and customs.

The underground WWII tunnels are a fascinating part of the tour. These tunnels, kept intact from the war era, serve as a powerful reminder of Zagreb’s resilience. One reviewer was amazed by the underground hospital that remained fully functional—an incredible piece of wartime ingenuity. The tunnels are a true highlight, providing a tangible connection to the city’s recent past and a chance to see how civilians endured during turbulent times.

Following the tunnels, you’ll take a short ride on the smallest funicular in the world—when it’s operating. While currently closed for renovations until 2026, this part of the tour is often praised for its charm and efficiency, offering a quick climb up Gri Hill. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy panoramic views from Gradec (the upper town), which is often described as the most picturesque part of Zagreb.

From Gri Hill, the tour descends into Tkalciceva Street, a lively area filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants. It’s a great place to relax, grab a snack, or simply soak in Zagreb’s lively atmosphere. The tour concludes back at Ban Jelacic Square, leaving you with a solid overview of the city’s core.

What Makes This Tour Worth Your While

Reviews consistently praise the guides’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and humor—especially Iva, Robert, Lucia, Marco, and Marko, who are highlighted for bringing stories to life and answering questions with warmth. Their local insights help you connect the dots of Zagreb’s layered history, from its medieval roots to its modern-day vibrancy.

While the price is modest, the experience feels substantial. You’re not just ticking off sights but gaining context that enriches your understanding of the city. The combination of outdoor sights, underground history, and scenic viewpoints makes for a well-rounded introduction.

One of the most appreciated aspects is the balance of walking and rest, allowing you to absorb the sights without feeling rushed. Reviewers mention the tour’s good pacing, with enough breaks to enjoy the scenery or take photos. Plus, the operating weather conditions mean you can plan this tour in most seasons, just check if any attractions are temporarily closed.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Since the funicular is currently closed, if riding it is a must-do for you, plan your visit accordingly or opt for a future date when it reopens. However, the views from Gri Hill can be enjoyed from the top of Gradec without the funicular, and many find the walk up just as rewarding.

Remember, food and drinks are not included, so bring some water or snacks if you’re sensitive to the daytime heat. The tour’s affordability makes it easy to plan for a meal afterward at one of the many cafes on Tkalciceva Street.

The group size tends to be manageable, and guides are attentive to individual needs. The tour operates in all weather, so dress appropriately—an umbrella or raincoat might be handy if rain is forecast.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a cost-effective introduction to Zagreb’s key sights and stories. History enthusiasts will appreciate the underground tunnels, while first-time visitors will benefit from the guided overview of the city’s highlights. It’s also excellent for those who enjoy a lively, friendly guide and a relaxed pace, making it suitable for all ages and mobility levels.

If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive snapshot, this tour ticks all the boxes. If you’re particularly keen on visiting the funicular or certain attractions that are currently closed, you may want to consider scheduling a future visit or looking for alternative tours.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. Just be prepared with appropriate clothing and an umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Will I see the WWII tunnels?
Absolutely. The tunnels are a core part of the tour, offering a rare glimpse into Zagreb’s wartime past.

When does the funicular operate?
Currently, the funicular is closed for renovation until March 2026. Check ahead to confirm if it’s open during your visit.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, making it a manageable walk with plenty of interesting stops.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided walk through the city and a ticket for the funicular when it’s operating. Food and drinks are not included.

Are the guides knowledgeable and engaging?
Yes, reviews consistently highlight guides like Iva, Robert, Lucia, Marco, and Marko for their expertise, humor, and friendliness.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this Zagreb city tour offers fantastic value, blending sightseeing, history, and scenic views in a friendly, well-paced format. It’s perfect for those new to Zagreb or travelers who want to combine outdoor exploration with underground relics. With passionate guides and a thoughtfully planned route, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of this lively Croatian capital—and perhaps a few good stories to tell back home.