Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb (Trg bana Jelačića)

Ban Jelačić Square is the “front door” of Zagreb: the place where routes begin, trams pass through, and friends meet before a coffee that lasts longer than planned.

If you’re only in Zagreb for a short trip, treat this square as your orientation point. From here, you can reach Dolac Market, the cathedral area, Upper Town stair routes, and the Lower Town parks in minutes.

• The Manduševac fountain and spring: a classic Zagreb story and an easy “pause point.”
• The statue of Ban Josip Jelačić: the city’s most referenced meeting landmark (“under the horse’s tail”).
• The view lines: Dolac Market uphill, Ilica stretching west, and the café streets branching off nearby.
• Tram rhythm: this is where the city feels most “alive,” especially in late afternoon.

• Uphill morning: Dolac Market → cathedral area → Upper Town viewpoints.
• Green reset: Lower Town parks loop (Zrinjevac and the Green Horseshoe vibe).
• Street-life evening: Tkalčićeva for cafés and casual nightlife.

• “Under the clock”: a classic meetup spot on the west side of the square.
• “Under the horse’s tail”: the informal meetup reference to the equestrian statue.

If you want to feel instantly local, use one of these phrases once — it’s a Zagreb cliché for a reason.