Croatia is known for its stunning coastlines, turquoise waters and summer festivals. But did you know that this summer-loving nation turns into a winter wonderland at Christmas time?
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Advent u Zagrebu, or Advent in Zagreb, is the biggest winter festival in the country, attracting Christmas lovers from all over Europe.
At the end of November every year, Croatia's capital city comes to life when Advent in Zagreb begins — and let me tell you, it's seriously stunning.
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Having won the award for 'Best Christmas Markets in Europe' for three years in a row, this Christmas celebration is not one to miss.
While there are so many incredible things to see and do at Advent in Zagreb, here are 13 highlights you should be putting on your to-do list.
1. Skate around the ice rink of dreams at Ledeni Park in King Tomislav Square.
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One of the main squares of Zagreb turns into an iceskating paradise during Advent in Zagreb. This rink is actually a circuit that lets you weave next to market stalls and around the fountain in the centre of the square.
2. Walk through Grič Tunnel, which has been transformed to reflect this year's festival theme: the Nutcracker.
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With snow-capped trees, giant nutcrackers and beautiful installations that change as you walk through curtained walls, Grič Tunnel is not one to miss. You'll find the entrance on Mesnička Street.
3. Pose next to the giant Christmas Tree in St Mark's Square.
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A Zagreb icon, somehow the stunning St Mark's Church looks even better with a giant Christmas tree next to it.
4. Stroll through the magical Zrinjevac Park, which gets lit up at night time.
This gorgeous park is absolutely covered in Christmas lights during the festival — plus, it also houses many a food, drink and gift stall.
5. Explore the Christmas Markets dotted around the city.
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Zrinjevac Park isn't the only place to find food and entertainment. Make sure you check out Fuliranje (Fooling Around), which is located in Strossmayer Square.
6. Try traditional Croatian foods, including street sarma.
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One of the staples of Croatian cuisine, these cabbage rolls are stuffed with meat and rice and have been slowly stewing for hours. During the festival, vendors do a street food edition of this beloved dish. Yum!
7. As well as a crowd favourite, kobasice.
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These Croatian sausages are served as hot dogs, stuffed with tonnes of fun fillings.
8. If you're looking for a sweet treat, try some fritule, Croatia's answer to doughnuts.
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Soft, deep fried balls of dough topped with the likes of chocolate, sprinkles and cinnamon sugar, these festival favourites hit the spot every time.
9. Or germknedle, which are dumpling-like sweets popular throughout Central and Eastern Europe.
Traditionally filled with locally-grown plums, you can find lots of contemporary takes on germknedle all around the festival — which are typically super indulgent.
10. And don't skip the international dishes on offer, like these Japanese Takoyaki.
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Other cuisines that are represented at this year's markets include Italian, German, Hungarian and Mexican foods.
11. Make sure you check out the various shops and cafes that also get into the Christmas spirit, like Caffe Bar Finjak.
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Which I'm sure is the most instagramable cafe in the whole city.
12. And enjoy some of their homemade mulled wine and festive hot chocolate while you're there.
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The mulled wine at Finjak is reported to be some of the best in Zagreb, so definitely warm up with a glass (or four).
13. And finally, take some snaps for the 'gram at the picture-perfect activations set up around the city.
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Including this cute wreath in the Upper Town that perfectly frames the Cathedral on the horizon.
