Zagreb • Neighborhoods

Novi Zagreb Guide (Modern Zagreb Across the River)

A practical guide to Novi Zagreb: why to go, what to do there (including MSU), and how to fit it into a short Zagreb itinerary.

Updated Dec 31, 202511 min readBrowse all guides

Photo by LISK OBE on Unsplash.

Why visit Novi Zagreb

Most visitors stay in the historic center — but Novi Zagreb shows a modern, spacious side of the city. It’s a great contrast day, especially if you like contemporary culture.

If Zagreb feels like “Upper Town texture + Lower Town parks,” Novi Zagreb is the third chapter: wide avenues, modern buildings, and a different pace across the river.

A simple Novi Zagreb plan

  1. Go midday → visit one modern-culture anchor (MSU) → coffee break → Bundek lakeside walk → return for dinner in the center.

What to do (beyond the obvious)

  • Do one “big museum” (MSU) and keep the rest of the day light and outdoors.
  • Treat it as a contrast day: modern architecture, open space, and a different city rhythm.
  • If the weather is great, stay longer — Novi Zagreb is better when you don’t rush back immediately.

How to fit it into your trip

  • On a 2-day weekend: do Novi Zagreb on Day 2 afternoon.
  • On a 3-day trip: make it your “contrast day” before a day trip.

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.