Zagreb in Ink and Coffee: A Feminist Café Chronicle

5.0 (6 reviews) 2–3 hours Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

6 reviews

5.0

Zagreb in Ink and Coffee: A Feminist Café Chronicle — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Zagreb in Ink and Coffee: A Feminist Café Chronicle, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

What sets this tour apart is its unique blend of history, literature, and culture seen through the eyes of Croatia’s pioneering female journalist, Marija Jurić Zagorka. Unlike typical city tours, this experience brings Zagreb’s streets and cafés to life with stories of courage, feminism, and creativity — all narrated by a guide costumed as Zagorka herself. You’ll explore iconic outdoor locations tied to her life and work, discover hidden gems of the city’s café culture, and gain fresh perspectives on Zagreb’s social history. Perfect for literature lovers, history buffs, and anyone curious about the vibrant role of women in shaping a city’s identity.

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At a glance

Duration: 2–3 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English, Croatian
Operated by: Tales & Spirits of Old Zagreb

Ages: Youth (8–16 years) · Adults (17–64 years) · Seniors (65–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Small group experience for personalized attention and engaging discussions
Included: Storytelling about Zagorka’s life, work, and the city’s culture in the 19th and early 20th centuries
Included: Recommendations for further exploration
Included: Guided walking tour through Zagreb’s Lower Town with a costumed guide
Included: Alcoholic beverages: Enjoy a guided tasting of traditional Croatian liqueurs in an atmospheric local distillery. Reservation required; more details provided upon booking.

Not included

Not included: Personal expenses and souvenirs
Not included: Gratuities: Optional and appreciated

Itinerary

King Tomislav Square

15 min

Our journey begins at this iconic square, dominated by the grand statue of King Tomislav, Croatia’s first king. This bustling gateway to Zagreb’s Lower Town sets the scene for the tour — a place where history meets everyday city life, and where Zagorka’s story begins to unfold.
Strossmayer Square

15 min

A charming green oasis in the city, Strossmayer Square is named after the famous bishop and patron of Croatian culture, Josip Juraj Strossmayer. His residence was a cultural hub even in Zagorka’s time, a place where artists, writers, and thinkers mingled — the perfect backdrop to discuss Zagreb’s vibrant intellectual scene.
Zrinjevac

15 min

Standing outside the historic Kavana Zagreb near Zrinjevac Park, we explore its significance as a center of literary and social life. Though we remain outdoors, this café’s legacy as a meeting place for writers and revolutionaries, including Zagorka’s circle, comes alive through stories shared on the spot.
Stop 4

15 min

Named after the first president of Czechoslovakia, Masarykova Street is a bustling artery of the Lower Town. Here, the rhythm of daily Zagreb life pulses through shops, theatres, and cafés — the very environment that inspired Zagorka’s vivid portrayals of urban society.
Stop 5

15 min

At the site of the former editorial office of Obzor newspaper — where Marija Jurić Zagorka worked as a journalist — we reflect on her pioneering role in Croatian media and the power of the press in shaping social change. The stories told here resonate with the spirit of a woman who used her pen to challenge norms.
Stop 6

15 min

Varšavska Street marks the transition from the hustle of the Lower Town to the quieter residential quarters. This area reflects the social contrasts of Zagreb in Zagorka’s era — a backdrop for many stories of ordinary people, their struggles, and aspirations.

It was here that the headquarters of Ženski list were located, founded and edited by Marija Jurić Zagorka from 1925 to 1938. Through this pioneering publication, Zagorka gave voice to women’s issues, education, and rights in a time when such topics were rarely discussed publicly.
Ilica

15 min

Café Corso was a beloved institution, known for its elegant atmosphere and as a rendezvous for the city’s progressive thinkers. Located at the corner of Ilica and Gundulićeva Street, it was a place where ideas flowed as freely as coffee. Marija Jurić Zagorka was among its frequent guests, joining writers and journalists in spirited conversation. Here, we delve into the café culture that brewed not only beverages, but bold visions of change, equality, and expression.
Ban Josip Jelacic Square

15 min

Near the former site of Velika Kavana (Grand Café), we pause in quiet reflection on the stories and lives that once filled this legendary place. Though the café itself no longer stands, its spirit lingers here — a reminder of Zagreb’s rich cultural past and the voices that shaped it. This spot offers a poignant finale to our journey through the city, seen through the eyes of its first female journalist, honoring the timeless power of storytelling, resilience, and community.
Radiceva

20 min

Optional Finale: Liqueur Tasting at House of Spirits

As an optional conclusion to the tour, guests are invited to enjoy a guided liqueur tasting at House of Spirits, a boutique distillery near the city center. In the spirit of Zagreb’s café culture and Zagorka’s richly woven stories, this tasting offers a sensory experience of traditional Croatian liqueurs — from herbal to fruit-infused blends. It’s a relaxed, flavorful way to toast to strong women, bold words, and a city full of character.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meeting point is at the foot of the large equestrian statue of King Tomislav, located at the southern end of Zagreb's city center, just across from the main railway station (Glavni kolodvor). Look for a costumed guide dressed as Marija Jurić Zagorka — long skirt, blouse, tie, and a distinctive hat.

End point

The tour concludes at Ban Jelačić Square (Trg bana Josipa Jelačića) — the central meeting point of Zagreb, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafés. It's the perfect spot to continue exploring the city or enjoy a post-tour coffee inspired by the stories you've just heard.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.