This small town near Zagreb has a well-preserved medieval core and is known for its kremšnita cream cake. Local hiking trails lead to Mount Samoborsko.
Samobor, a small town 20 kilometers west of Zagreb, is known for its medieval town center, 13th-century castle ruins, and kremšnita cream cake. Many visitors come here for a day trip from Croatia's capital. The town is also close to Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park, where you can hike through forests and explore caves.
Exploring Samobor's Town Center
King Tomislav Square is the center of Samobor, surrounded by Baroque buildings and outdoor cafes. You can walk on cobblestone streets, cross bridges over the Gradna creek, and see the yellow Parish Church of Saint Anastazija, built in 1675 and one of Croatia's earliest Baroque churches. To learn about local history, visit the Samobor Museum in a 19th-century villa, which displays artifacts and artworks related to the town's past.
Hiking to Samobor Castle
A 30-minute hike from the town center takes you to the ruins of Samobor Castle on Tepec Hill. Built in the 13th century, the castle changed owners many times before falling into disrepair. Today, you can walk among the remaining stone walls and see Samobor and the surrounding countryside from above. The castle grounds host a medieval battle fair each March, with costumed reenactments.
Tasting Samobor's Culinary Delights
Many locals and visitors consider Samobor's kremšnita, a custard cream cake, the best in Croatia. You can try this local specialty at U Prolazu cake shop on the main square. Other traditional dishes include štrukli (a type of filled pasta), Samobor salami, and bermet, a spiced wine aperitif. For a full meal of local cuisine, go to Gabrek 1929, the oldest operating restaurant in town, known for its meat dishes and traditional atmosphere.
Exploring Nature Around Samobor
Žumberak-Samoborsko Gorje Nature Park surrounds Samobor, with many hiking and cycling trails. You can climb wooded hills like the 879-meter Japetić or the 752-meter Oštrc, each taking about 90 minutes to reach the top. Grgos Cave, a protected geomorphological monument, has unique stone formations. The cave is open to visitors and includes two halls and a 19-meter-high crevice.
Getting to Samobor from Zagreb
You can reach Samobor from Zagreb by bus or car. Buses run frequently from Zagreb's main bus station and Črnomerec station, with the journey taking about an hour. If you're driving, follow the signs and expect a 40-minute trip, depending on traffic. In Samobor, you can explore the compact town center on foot.
Festivals and Events in Samobor
Samobor hosts several annual events that highlight local culture. The most popular is Samoborski Fašnik, a carnival celebration each February with a 190-year tradition. During this time, the town has costumed parades, music, and the symbolic burning of Prince Fašnik to ward off negativity. In March, you can attend the Salamijada, a festival dedicated to locally produced salami, where you can taste and vote for your favorite varieties.
