Zagreb • Culture
Croatian Natural History Museum (HPM): A Great Rainy-Day Pick
The Croatian Natural History Museum (HPM) is back with renovated spaces and a modern permanent display. Here’s what to see, how to plan, and how to pair it with Upper Town sights.
Map: Natural History Museum + Upper Town anchors
Pins for pairing the museum with viewpoints and the Upper Town loop.
Map tiles by OpenFreeMap (OpenMapTiles / OpenStreetMap). Scroll zoom is disabled to keep page scrolling smooth — use the zoom buttons instead.
Pins
Croatian Natural History Museum (HPM)
Zagreb City Museum
Strossmayer Promenade
St. Mark’s Church
Grič Tunnel (Ilica entrance)
Why it’s worth prioritizing now
Zagreb is a strong rainy-day city — and the Croatian Natural History Museum (HPM) is one of the best indoor anchors if you want something classic, family-friendly, and genuinely Croatian.
The museum is located in Zagreb’s Upper Town (in the Amadeo Palace), and it was officially reopened in October 2024 after a major renovation and modernization — making it especially appealing if you skipped it in previous years.
What you’ll see (high-level, but helpful)
- Minerals, rocks, and the geological story of the region.
- Animals and natural-history specimens that make Croatia’s ecosystems feel tangible.
- Links to the famous Krapina Neanderthal story (the museum is closely connected to that scientific heritage).
- A museum atmosphere that works well for families: you can enjoy it without needing deep background knowledge.
How to combine it with an Upper Town day
- Museum → Strossmayer Promenade viewpoint → St. Mark’s Square → coffee.
- If it’s raining: museum → tunnel shortcut → café → another small museum (optional).
If you’re traveling with kids (or a curious adult)
- This is one of the easiest museums to enjoy without reading everything.
- Pair it with a park walk if weather clears (or with Grič Tunnel if it doesn’t).
- For even more hands-on energy, combine it with the Technical Museum Nikola Tesla on a different day.
Practical notes (so the plan doesn’t break)
- Opening hours, tickets, and exhibition details can change — use the official site for the latest.
- Upper Town is hilly: plan one ‘stair moment,’ then keep the rest of your day flat and easy.
FAQ
Is the Croatian Natural History Museum open again?
Yes — it officially reopened in October 2024 after extensive renovation and modernization. Always confirm current hours on the official site before visiting.
Is it worth it if I’m not traveling with kids?
Yes, especially on a rainy day or if you like geology, specimens, and the ‘science story’ behind Croatia (including the Krapina Neanderthal heritage).
Further reading
Keep exploring Zagreb
Use the guide list to build a trip that fits your pace — a few anchors, plenty of wandering, and at least one night walk.
Love Zagreb is an independent guide. For official updates, visit Zagreb Tourist Board and the linked official sources above.