Best hidden gems for coffee in the morning and cocktail at night: Discover Zagreb's courtyards
Whether you’re looking for a morning coffee, an afternoon break, or an evening hangout, there’s a spot for everyone. What connects them all is the feeling: relaxed, authentic, and slightly hidden. Time slows down here, and enjoying the moment comes naturally. If you know where to look, Zagreb reveals its most special places.
Figa Garden
No gimmicks - this modern café is the perfect spot for anyone who enjoys great coffee, matcha, or cocktails, as well as something delicious to eat, sweet or savoury, right in the very centre of Zagreb. Located on Gundulićeva Street, Figa Garden welcomes you with a top-quality offer and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to grab a drink and get some work done on your laptop or spend hours enjoying coffee with friends, this is the place to be.
Foto: Figa Garden
A'e Craft Bar
This café, with its truly southern, Dalmatian name, is a favorite in Zagreb. It’s proof that sometimes, for the right things and some of the best views of the city, it’s worth making a little effort. A’e is located at 54 Pavla Radića Street and offers a wide selection of craft beers from around the world, as well as premium wines, cocktails, and other alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The interior is modern, with a strong industrial touch that creates a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Alongside an extensive drink menu, Craft Bar A’e also serves a variety of snacks.
P.S. This isn’t their only location.
A most unusual garden
If you’ve ever passed by the tram turnaround on Savska, you couldn’t have missed the beautiful treehouse. One of the cutest spots in the city is definitely A Most Unusual Garden - a name that speaks for itself. With its beautifully designed interior and exterior, it’s especially known for its amazing cocktails and iced teas. You can enjoy them even if the weather turns bad this spring or summer, thanks to its covered terrace that feels just as cosy as being in your own space.
Foto: Instagram (A most unusal garden)
Bacchus Jazz Bar
Ready for something a little different? Great, head over to Bacchus near the Main Railway Station. Just across the popular King Tomislav Square, you’ll find this hidden courtyard, perfect for all jazz lovers. The relaxed interior, filled with vibrant details, combined with a spacious terrace that truly comes to life in warmer days, makes this spot a real oasis in the city centre. Everyone is welcome, regardless of music preferences - you’re guaranteed to unwind and escape the everyday routine.
Foto: Bacchus Jazz Bar
Urania bar
A place like this truly belongs in the wider city centre. In a courtyard on Kvaternikov Square, inside a former cinema space, you’ll find Urania Bar. Although the building was constructed nearly a hundred years ago, the space feels distinctly modern. Beyond hosting various events, it’s a café that’s always in demand in everyday life as well. It offers great food and even better drinks for any occasion and any time of day... and it’s made for everyone.
Still waiting? You don’t have time for that - someone might take your table.
Botaničar
Botaničar is one of those places that quickly became a favorite as soon as it opened its doors, blending perfectly into the rhythm of city life. It’s a spot that invites you to slow down and enjoy the greenery, nature, and the beautiful neighborhood it calls home. Located at 6 Marulić Square, it’s the perfect place for your first morning coffee, a business meeting, or a quiet break with a book and a glass of good wine. On top of that, the café often hosts small exhibitions, adding an extra layer of charm.
Foto: Botaničar
Kavana Palainovka
A corner of the city loved even by past generations. The iconic Palainovka is one of the oldest cafés, and it earns its place at the end of this list for a reason - as the perfect sweet finish as a "cherry on the top". With a terrace that impresses, a strong offering, and an authentic Zagreb vibe that attracts both locals and visitors, Palainovka is a must-see for any occasion, at any time of year, especially when the weather warms up, and you can enjoy its famous terrace.
Foto: Palainovka
Header image credit: Marko Mihaljević / Zagreb Tourist Board
Author: Pia Humski