Let's start our journey through Zagreb's heights from the very heart of the city. Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City is a place that delights tourists with an unforgettable view of the capital's skyline. Located at Strossmayerovo šetalište, this point offers a spectacular view of Zagreb's red rooftops and majestic cathedral. A rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars attests to its popularity with visitors. However, it's worth noting that some visitors point out the ongoing renovations and the partially obstructed view through the trees.

Nearby is another gem - the Lotrščak Tower. This historic structure, dating back to the 13th century, offers not only a great view of the city, but also a fascinating history. For a small fee (about €3 as of 2023), you can climb to the top and enjoy a panoramic view of Zagreb. The tower is also famous for its daily cannon firing at 12:00 pm, although this tradition was temporarily suspended after the 2020 earthquake. The narrow, winding staircase can be a challenge for some, but the view from the top compensates for any hardships.

For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, the Strossmayer Promenade is ideal. This charming avenue, rated 4.8 stars, offers not only beautiful views of the city, but also a peaceful atmosphere perfect for a stroll. It's a popular spot with locals and tourists, especially at sunset. The promenade is also a great starting point for exploring the Upper Town (Gornji Grad).

When comparing the three sites, it's worth noting that each offers a slightly different perspective and experience. Panoramic View-Point is the most direct vantage point, ideal for quick photos. Lotrščak Tower requires more effort, but offers historical context and a full 360-degree view. Strossmayer Promenade, on the other hand, is the perfect place for a relaxing stroll overlooking the city. All of these sites are easily accessible and close to each other, making it easy to visit them all in one stroll through the Upper City.

We will now move on to Zagreb's more contemporary and less obvious viewpoints that offer a fresh perspective on the city.

Let's start with The Ilica Skyscraper, also known as Zagreb Eye. Located on one of the city's main streets, Ilica, this 16-story building offers an observatory on the top floor. From here you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city, especially impressive at sunset or after dark, when Zagreb is lit up with thousands of lights. This is a relatively new attraction that has quickly become popular with tourists and locals alike. There is an entrance fee, but the ticket price often includes a drink at the bar on the viewing terrace.

For those who want to combine admiring the views with discovering the city's history, Medvedgrad is the ideal destination. This medieval fortress, located on Medvednica Hill, offers not only breathtaking views of Zagreb, but also a fascinating journey through time. Recently restored, Medvedgrad (rated 4.4/5) combines historical elements with modern amenities. Here you'll find multimedia exhibitions that tell the story of the city's history, as well as an observation deck equipped with telescopes. It's worth remembering that getting here can be a bit difficult - it's best to use public transportation or a car.

For those looking for less crowded places, we recommend Sljeme Vidikovac Grafičar. Located on the slope of Mount Medvednica, this viewpoint offers a quieter alternative to the popular spots in the center. From here you can enjoy a sweeping view of Zagreb and the surrounding countryside. This is an ideal spot for those who want to combine admiring the panorama with a short excursion into nature. However, it is worth remembering that the view may be partially restricted by growing vegetation, which some visitors point out as a minus (rating 4.8/5).

Comparing the three sites, each offers a unique experience. The Ilica Skyscraper is a modern, easily accessible spot with 360-degree panoramic views, ideal for those who value convenience and don't have a lot of time. Medvedgrad is a combination of history and beautiful views, requiring a bit more planning, but offering a richer cultural experience. Sljeme Vidikovac Grafičar, on the other hand, is an option for lovers of nature and tranquility, although it may require more effort to get there.

Each of these places has its own advantages and disadvantages. The Ilica Skyscraper is the most accessible, but can be crowded during peak season. Medvedgrad offers the richest historical experience, but requires more time to explore. Sljeme Vidikovac Grafičar provides the most natural setting, but can be more difficult to find for those unfamiliar with the area.

To conclude our tour of Zagreb's viewpoints, it's worth mentioning a few additional sites that offer unique perspectives on the city.

Gornji Grad, or the Upper City, is not just a single vantage point, but an entire district full of places from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of Zagreb. This historic part of the city, rated 4.7/5, is a tourist attraction in its own right. Walking along the cobblestone streets, every now and then we come across picturesque views and charming corners. We especially recommend the area around St. Mark's Church, which offers a beautiful view of the lower part of the city. Gornji Grad is also where most of the previously mentioned viewpoints are located, making it an ideal place to start exploring Zagreb from a bird's eye view.

For families with children, combining a tour with a visit to the Zagreb Zoological Garden may be an interesting option. Although not a typical sightseeing spot, the zoo is located in Maksimir Park, which offers beautiful views of the surrounding area. It's a great option to combine nature education with admiring the city's skyline.

Also worth mentioning are less obvious but equally interesting viewpoints, such as the Grič Tunnel. This underground tunnel, originally used as a shelter during World War II, was recently opened to the public. While it doesn't offer classic views of the city, it provides a unique look at Zagreb's history 'from below'. During the holiday season, the tunnel is often decorated, creating a magical atmosphere.

Comparing all the viewpoints discussed, we can see that each offers something unique. Classic spots like the Lotrščak Tower or the Panoramic View-Point of Zagreb City are ideal for those who want to quickly see the most important views of the city. Modern points, such as The Ilica Skyscraper, offer comfort and 360-degree panoramic views. On the other hand, places further from the center, such as Medvedgrad or Sljeme Vidikovac Grafičar, allow you to combine admiring the views with active recreation in nature.

When choosing a viewpoint, there are several factors to consider. The time you have available, your physical condition (some places require climbing), and your preference for the type of attraction (historical, modern, natural) should influence your choice. However, regardless of which place we choose, Zagreb is sure to impress us with its panorama and the variety of perspectives from which it can be admired.