Samobor
For a day trip just a stone's-throw from Zagreb, travelers can find both charm and history exploring the cobblestoned streets of medieval Sambor. Set in the shadow of the Stari Grad fortress ruins, this picturesque city is not only elegant, but something of a culinary hub. Don't miss the Samoborska Kremšnita—the city's famed confection.
The Basics
Beyond its pastel-colored buildings and medieval infrastructure, perhaps the most desirable feature of Samobor is that it's easy to visit. The city is only about 25 kilometers (15 miles) west of Zagreb, so it makes a near-perfect day trip destination. You can see most of Sambor in only a few hours, including top sights surrounding Kralja Tomislava square like St. Michael's Church and the Town Museum.
Beyond the city, Sambor is also a prime jumping-off point for outdoor adventure. For a hike, you can explore the wooded trails of the surrounding wilderness. A jaunt to the Samobor Hills or Samobor Gorje Prirodni Nature Park are ideal for working up a sweat and enjoying the fresh air.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Foodies shouldn't miss Samobor, which is a prime destination for Croatian cuisine.
- Before a meal you can sip a glass of the local aperitif—Bermet—prepared with red wine, fruit, and herbs.
- Cycling, hiking, and walking tours in greater Samobor are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
How to Get There
Whether you rent a car, book a taxi, or opt for a private sightseeing excursion, Samobor is only about a 30-minute drive from Zagreb. If you're planning to drive, you can take E70 to D231. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus from the ?rnomerec station in western Zagreb. Both Autoturist and Samobor?ek busses run from the station.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
Perhaps the best time to visit Samobor during the yearly carnival festivities, which are nothing if not exuberant. The tradition dates to the early 1800s, and this Ash Wednesday celebration is all about the food, drink, and the festival's live costumed character—Prince Carnival. The weather is typically pleasant in spring and summer, which means more tourists at the popular local restaurants.
Exploring the Ruins of Samobor Castle
Just up the hill you can't miss the ruins of Old Town Sambor and its distinctive Sambor Castle. Built in 1268 and maintained through the 18th century, this dilapidated structure today is still worth a visit today, and can be reached after a scenic stroll from the main city square. It's about a 20-minute walk along Starogradska Street, over the river, and up the hill.
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- Jarun Lake
- Medvedgrad Castle
- Museum of Illusions
- Mimara Museum (Muzej Mimara)
- Zagreb Botanical Garden
- Croatian National Theatre (HNK Zagreb)
- Lotrscak Tower
- Strossmayer Promenade (Strossmayerovo Setaliste)
- Croatian Museum of Naive Art (Hrvatski Muzej Naivne Umjetnosti)
- Museum of Broken Relationships (Muzej Prekinutih Veza)
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad)
- St. Mark's Church (Crkva Svetog Marka)
- Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata)
- Zagreb 360 Observation Deck (Zagreb Eye)
- Ban Jelacic Square (Trg Bana Jelacica)