Located beneath Zagreb’s Upper Town, the Grič Tunnel is a 350-meter pedestrian tunnel, built during the Second World War as a shelter. Now restored and open to the public, it offers a unique sensory and emotional experience. It tells the underground story of Zagreb and serves as an exhibition space.
In this article, read about our immersive experience at the Grič Tunnel in pictures, our opinion and our tips for making the most of this visit.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit the Grič Tunnel?
Is the Grič Tunnel worth it? Our opinion:
The Grič Tunnel is worth a visit, if only once, for its atmosphere and history. This 350-meter pedestrian tunnel is a true sensory and emotional experience in a cool, lit and clean space. Its variable width makes it ideal for exhibitions and shows, particularly during the Fête des Lumières. Accessible to all, it is ideal for visitors curious about history and unusual atmospheres.
This is one of Zagreb’s best attractions.
Why is the Grič Tunnel famous?
The Grič Tunnel is famous for its historic role in the city of Zagreb. Built during the
Since its restoration and opening to the public in 2016, it has become a dynamic cultural venue. The tunnel hosts temporary exhibitions and shows, notably in December when it is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. This combination of history and cultural activity has given the tunnel a strong local reputation.
Our favorite moments
During our visit, we particularly appreciated :
- The unique atmosphere of the tunnel, where the artificial light and coolness provide a striking contrast to the city above, especially in midsummer!
- Easy access and cleanliness make the visit pleasant and accessible, even for a short stroll of less than 30 minutes.
- The history of the place, which in itself sums up a whole recent part of the city’s and the country’s history.
History in brief
- 1943: Construction of the tunnel during the Second World War to house the regime leaders of the period.
- 1991-1995: Used as a refuge for the local population during the war in Croatia.
- 2016: Restored and opened to the public, transforming the tunnel into a cultural and tourist attraction.
- Since then, the tunnel has hosted exhibitions, shows and seasonal events such as the Fête des lumières and Christmas.
Access: Grič Tunnel, Zagreb
Where is Tunnel Grič?
- The Grič Tunnel is located at 19 Mesnička ulica, in Zagreb’s Upper Town.
- It is located in the heart of the historic core of the Croatian capital.
How to get there?
- The Grič Tunnel is within walking distance
- It’s a 5-minute walk from Ban-Jelačić Square, in the center of Zagreb, a must for many streetcar lines.
Parking
- There is no dedicated parking at the Grič Tunnel, nor any spaces reserved for people with reduced mobility.
- We recommend you use public transport or come on foot to enjoy Zagreb’s underground history to the full.
OUR ADVICE FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Croatia
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
See our tips (coming soon)
Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
- The Grič Tunnel is open from 9am to 9pm, closed at night.
- Christmas transforms the tunnel into a wonderland not to be missed.
- In December and March, the Festival of Lights offers a unique sensory and emotional experience.
Length of visit and main difficulties
- The complete tour of the tunnel takes less than 20 minutes.
- Despite its uneven surface, the tunnel is a haven of coolness accessible to wheelchairs.
- The tunnel is pedestrian, so if you’re on a bike, you’ll have to ride it alongside you.
Advice on how to visit
The tunnel can be explored freely, with no set route. We crossed it from one end to the other.
Visiting with children
The Grič Tunnel is not specially equipped for children, with no dedicated areas. However, the visit may arouse their curiosity about local history. Strollers should take care, as access is partially restricted.
Schedules and rates
- Opening hours: open from 9am to 9pm, closed at night
- Free admission
- More details here
Guided tours
You can explore the tunnel on your own, taking your time to assimilate the information at your own pace. No audioguides or explanatory panels are available on site. However, to find out more, you can opt for a walking tour of the city and its tunnels, which includes the Gric Tunnel. Check prices, photos and availability and… Make a reservation.
Diving into Zagreb’s underground history: a unique immersion in the Grič Tunnel
Relive the Second World War through the Grič Tunnel
Built during the Second World War, the Grič Tunnel served as a shelter for the leaders of the pro-Nazi regime at the time. This 350-meter-long underground passageway, located beneath Zagreb’s Upper Town, bears witness to a dark and complex era. Walking through this tunnel, we could feel the gravity of its history, a place that protected lives in the midst of intense conflict.
The Grič Tunnel, refuge during the 1991-1995 war
During the 1991-1995 war, this tunnel once again played a crucial role in providing refuge for the local population. This underground passageway, which we used to cross the city protected from the strong June sun, is a living testimony to Zagreb’s underground history.
A sensory and emotional experience in a unique space
Constant freshness and dramatic lighting
The Grič Tunnel offers a constant coolness that contrasts in summer with the heat of the city. This stable temperature creates an ideal atmosphere for a leisurely stroll. However, the draught between the 2 openings facing each other 350m apart can be less pleasant in winter. We felt that lighting played a major role in accentuating the volumes and textures of the concrete.
The 350-metre walk
The tunnel stretches for 350 meters, in an immersive walk beneath the upper town. A length that allowed us a unique sensory and emotional experience, between footsteps, light and history. As you walk along, you feel the memory of past conflicts, while enjoying a clean, cool and safe space.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Grič Tunnel host private events?
The Grič Tunnel has mainly been a public space open to the public since 2016. It regularly hosts exhibitions and shows, notably in December and March during the Festival of Lights. However, it is not organized for private events. Its vocation remains focused on showcasing Zagreb’s underground history and cultural experiences accessible to all.
Why do some visitors feel dizzy or disoriented in the tunnel?
Some people report a feeling of disorientation or slight dizziness when travelling through the tunnel, even if they are not claustrophobic. This phenomenon is said to be linked to the tunnel’s perfect straightness over 350 meters, creating a disturbing optical effect where perspective seems infinite. The absence of lateral visual cues, combined with uniform lighting and the faint echo of footsteps, can be unsettling.
