This riverside town along the Sava has an 18th-century fortress overlooking narrow streets and a lively market square. Local restaurants serve traditional Slavonian dishes.
Slavonski Brod stretches along the Sava River near the Bosnian border. Walk through the 18th-century Brod Fortress with its thick stone walls and 150 cannon positions, stroll across the main square where children play near the statue of writer Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić, or swim at Poloj beach where locals cool off in the Sava River during summer afternoons.
Getting to Slavonski Brod
You can reach Slavonski Brod by train from Zagreb in about 2.5 hours, with the premium Intercity Slavonia service providing complimentary coffee during the journey. The city lies directly on the A3 motorway, making it easily accessible by car or bus from both Zagreb and Belgrade. While Slavonski Brod doesn't have an airport, you can fly into Zagreb Airport and continue your journey by ground transportation.
Exploring Brod Fortress
The star-shaped Brod Fortress, built between 1715 and 1780, stretches along the riverside. During its peak, 4,000 soldiers lived within its walls, manning 150 cannons as part of the Habsburg defense system against the Ottoman Empire. Inside, you'll find the Ružić Gallery, displaying Croatian modern art from the second half of the 20th century. Groups can watch historical reenactments where performers dressed as 18th-century hussars demonstrate military life.
City Center and Main Square
The Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić square is one of Croatia's largest central squares. Look for the former home of the children's writer Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić on its edge. Throughout the year, local vendors set up stalls during festivals and events, while benches along the square's perimeter give you clear views of the Sava River.
Cultural Events and Festivals
In April and May, the children's festival 'In the World of the Fairy Tales of Writer Ivana Brlić-Mažuranić' fills the streets with storytelling and performances. The Brodsko kolo folklore festival brings traditional dance to the city in June, while Motorijada draws motorcycle riders each May. During Florafest, flower growers from across Croatia display their plants in the fortress grounds. In October, join locals at Pecenkijada, where you can taste traditionally roasted pork throughout the city.
Outdoor Recreation
You can swim at Poloj beach on the Sava River during summer, but watch for strong currents. The Migalovci grounds attract hunters, while birdwatchers head to Jelas Polje fishponds. For hiking, follow the marked trails on Dilj mountain or walk around Lake Petnja.
Nightlife Scene
The city comes alive on weekends and holidays when students return home. You'll find contemporary music at clubs like Iguana, Alfa, and Navigator, where drinks cost less than in most other Croatian cities.
Day Trips
From Slavonski Brod, drive 58 miles north to Osijek to see its Habsburg-era buildings and riverside promenade. Visit Đakovo to see its red-brick cathedral with two 84-meter spires. For nature walks, head to Papuk Nature Park or watch birds at the wetlands of Kopački Rit.
