ZIYP: Where is your favourite place to drink coffee or go out at night?
Dora: I rarely go out at night so I’m not an expert to recommend a place for nightlife. I prefer to spend my time meeting people for a coffee. Our Balkan tradition of spending several hours drinking coffee can be seen in the endless sea of cafes all over the city. I am the most fond of the ones on Flower Square (Cvjetni trg). Along with a good cup of coffee, I like to people-watch from a peaceful spot and enjoy urban life.

ZIYP: Where is your favourite place to relax in Zagreb?
Dora: When the form of relaxation that I want is not sipping coffee with friends, I like to go to a park. Zagreb has so many beautiful parks. Maksimir is a true oasis in the centre for those who want to get away from city noise and hide under a little greenery. Also, for all those adventurous souls, the centre and its surrounding area is ideal for exploring this small hidden oasis.

ZIYP: What is the best way to discover the city? Which activities do you recommend?
Dora: The best way is to walk. By any other way you simply cannot take in Zagreb’s beauty. Our town is beautiful. A lot of people fail to look up while walking the city and miss the beautiful facades, roofs, and ornaments on the facades. The artistic history of Zagreb is hidden in the architecture and should not be ignored. It is especially nice to get some ice cream in one of the pastry shops and then take a stroll to explore Zagreb.

ZIYP: Where is the most ideal place to shop? What do you recommend as a souvenir from Zagreb?
Dora: As a child of the shopping centre, I recommend to go shopping in one of the big centres. Whoever loves fast movement, the smell of new stores, and fast food will equally enjoy Arena, Westgate, and other places. It may not be particularly appealing for a tourist, but you return home full of bags with a big smile. As a souvenir, I believe that the most popular are the Licitar Hearts (gingerbread hearts), but I think it is interesting to find an older jewellery shop in town where you can buy bracelets with a Licitar Heart pendant or Šestine umbrellas! That is a souvenir that might be forgotten in an old drawer...

ZIYP: Which of the local specialities do you recommend as a “must-try” for visitors?
Dora: I personally love sweets! Every time I travel I’m sure to try some authentic sweet delicacies. Whether it’s cake, ice cream, or some other dessert. One of my favourite places in Zagreb where I like to treat myself with a sweet delight is Kraš. The taste of our delicious Bajadere is paradise for the palate!