Zagreb, home to 1.2 million inhabitants in its metropolitan area, is the capital of Croatia and sits on the slopes of the Medvednica mountains. The city, despite having a lackluster reputation in tourism in the past years, enjoys a favorable location on the Pannonian Basin, putting it right smack in the center connecting the traffic from Central Europe and the Adriatic Sea.

The city is not hard to love. Cobblestone streets and medieval architecture are reminiscent of Venice and other medieval European cities. More than a million tourists were charmed by the old-world feel of the city and its mix of modern luxuries set in the carefully laid back atmosphere of its quiet, lush, and green parks and classic and historical architecture. Walk through the upper town’s cobble stoned streets lit by medieval street lamps and visit the Church of St. Marks. Do as the locals do, and watch the world go by in Zagreb’s numerous cafes or spend lazy afternoons savoring the cuisine in the many restaurants of the lower town.

Getting around the city is made easy by the city’s efficient and modern transport system composed of buses, trams, and trains. Tram lines are not accessible in the weekends and holidays, however. Buses cover routes all over the city, along with neighboring towns, and they use the same ticketing system as the tram lines. To immerse oneself in the town’s history even while on the commute, one can try the old funicular railway, considered one of the steepest in the world and serves as a link between the upper and lower towns. Taxis are also available but they are notoriously expensive.

A passport is needed for a trip to Croatia and any of its cities. No visa is needed for US nationals on tourist trips planned to last no longer than 90 days within a six-month period.