Things To Do
in Ivanić-Grad

Ivanić-Grad is a small, riverside town in Zagreb County, Croatia, perched along the Sava River. Its historic center blends brick and stone landmarks with colorful façades and a relaxed, village-like atmosphere. The town serves as a tranquil base for day trips to Zagreb and the surrounding countryside, with easy access via road and rail.

Visitors can enjoy traditional cuisine, friendly hospitality, and scenic walks through nearby vineyards and rural landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Ivanić-Grad and check into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the local atmosphere and view the charming architecture. Stop by a local café for a warm drink and traditional Croatian pastry to fuel your day.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum of Moslavina, located in the center of the town, to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. Continue your exploration by walking through the scenic parks and natural areas nearby. Enjoy a lunch at a traditional restaurant, savoring local dishes like strukli or kulen.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local terrace to unwind with a glass of Croatian wine. Enjoy conversations with locals and other travelers, sharing stories and recommendations about the area. Dine at a cozy tavern, sampling regional specialties while enjoying traditional music.

day 2
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in the nearby nature parks, such as Lonjsko Polje, famous for its diverse flora and fauna. Take your time to observe the wildlife and enjoy the peace that surrounds you. After your hike, return to town for a hearty breakfast at a café.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the thermal springs nearby, indulging in relaxation and wellness treatments. Take a dip in the thermal baths and rejuvenate your body and mind in this serene environment. Enjoy a light lunch at the wellness complex's restaurant, focusing on fresh, healthy ingredients.

evening
:

Return to Ivanić-Grad and explore local handicraft shops to find unique souvenirs. Have dinner at a popular local eatery where you can try fresh fish or grilled meat paired with seasonal vegetables. Cap off the night with a stroll through the town, enjoying the nightly ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🧀Local cheese or dairy product$3-6
Coffee$2-4
🚆Public transport ticket$1-3
🏥Basic healthcare visit$40-70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, scenic base near Zagreb with easy access to the countryside
  • Warm hospitality and traditional regional cuisine
  • Limited nightlife and major tourist attractions
  • Smaller town facilities may require a short drive to Zagreb for large-scale services
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Gdje je toalet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Izvinite" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Ivanić-Grad

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Stari Grad and Church Panorama

Historic brick facades and a terrace overlooking the town square offer classic Croatian street photography opportunities.

Sava River Promenade

Reflections on the water and pedestrian bridges create ideal compositions, especially at sunrise or dusk.

Countryside Vineyard Outlook

Rural hills and vineyards nearby provide pastoral scenes and seasonal color palettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ivanić-Grad

The cuisine around Ivanić-Grad reflects continental Croatian flavors with hearty meat dishes, dairy products from the countryside, and comforting pastries. Expect rustic dishes that are simple yet satisfying, often prepared with seasonal ingredients from local farms. You’ll find dense cheeses, smoked meats, breads, and dishes that pair well with regional wines. A relaxed, family-owned dining scene makes it easy to try traditional flavors in welcoming settings.

Ivanić-Grad Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Štrukli

A classic Croatian pastry made with dough and cottage cheese, prepared boiled or baked; a staple of the Zagorje-influenced region.

Must-Try!

Purica s mlincima

Roasted turkey served with flatbread dumplings, a celebratory and comforting regional dish.

Čobanac

A hearty meat stew seasoned with paprika and herbs, perfect for cooler days.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Ivanić-Grad Farmers Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, dairy, honey, and regional specialties from local farms.

Street Food by the River

Casual stalls near the town center offering pastries, fried snacks, and light bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

The town experiences a temperate continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and changing colors, while summer can be hot and sunny and winter may bring frost and occasional snow. Overall, the climate supports year-round travel for day trips from Zagreb.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; address people formally (Vi) unless invited to use the informal ti.

Respect and privacy

Be polite in conversations, avoid loud behavior in public spaces, and ask before taking photos of people.

Dining etiquette

Meals are often shared; wait for everyone to be served and say please/thank you in Croatian.

Safety Guide

Safety

Croatia is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas are advised, and keep valuables secure in transit. When near the Sava River, follow local safety signs and guidance, especially during wet or windy conditions.

Tipping in Ivanić-Grad

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common if a service charge is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; small shops may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make it ideal for walks and outdoor cafe seating.

Summer

Warm days with plenty of sunshine; stay hydrated and enjoy the riverside atmosphere and early-evening strolls.

Autumn

Harvest season brings colorful foliage and markets full of seasonal produce; great for photography and leisurely drives.

Winter

Cool with occasional snow; cozy taverns and festive lights create a charming, quiet atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Ivanić-Grad at Night

Ivanić-Grad offers a low-key nightlife with cozy bars, riverside cafes, and family-run taverns. Evenings are relaxed, with locals enjoying social time at plazas and by the water; live music may appear on weekends in some venues. Most places close around midnight, making it easy to combine a night out with an early start for day trips.

Hiking in Ivanić-Grad

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Medvednica foothills (Sljeme)

Popular day hike and viewpoint near Zagreb offering forest trails and panoramas.

Ivanić-Grad countryside trails

Gentle looped trails through fields and vineyards suitable for easy hikes.

Sava river valley trails

Flat or gently rolling routes along the river ideal for walking and cycling.

Airports

How to reach Ivanić-Grad by plane.

Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG)

Main international gateway to Zagreb; approximately 25–40 km from Ivanić-Grad; reachable by car or airport transfer.

Maribor Edvard Rusjan Airport (MBX)

Regional airport in Slovenia about 120–150 km away; alternative for certain routes but less convenient for quick access.

Rijeka Airport (RJK)

Coastal airport around 140–170 km away; suitable for selected itineraries or connections via Zagreb.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable with pedestrian-friendly streets and a pleasant riverfront promenade. Many sights are within strolling distance, though some hillside viewpoints require a short uphill walk. For longer trips, local buses and taxis are readily available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families with children, drawn by a relaxed pace and community life.

Students and Young Professionals

Some residents commute to Zagreb for work or study, contributing to a youthful energy in town life.

Retirees

Quieter neighborhoods with local clubs and cultural events attract retirees.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport in town and schools; local clubs and pickup games are common.

Basketball

Common in community gyms and clubs; youth programs available.

Tennis

Public and club courts with seasonal programs; suitable for all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Road travel is straightforward with a good connection to Zagreb via regional roads. Public transportation includes buses and limited rail links to nearby towns and Zagreb. Car rental is convenient for day trips; traffic is typically light outside peak commuting hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ivanić-Grad.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Ivanić-Grad you can find dairy- and grain-based vegetarian options; ask for mushroom, cheese, and herb dishes or pasta with olive oil.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ivanić-Grad has basic local healthcare facilities and a clinic. For more comprehensive care, hospitals and specialized services are available in Zagreb, about a 25–45 minute drive depending on traffic. Carry health insurance documentation and know local emergency numbers.

Discover Croatia

Read more in our Croatia 2025 Travel Guide.

Croatia Travel Guide