Osijek is one of Croatia’s most underrated cities. Nestled on the banks of the Drava River in the region of Slavonia, it blends Austro-Hungarian elegance, riverside calm, and a vibrant cultural scene. While most visitors rush to the Adriatic coast, Osijek rewards those who take their time to explore its quiet streets and layered history.
There are many things to do in Osijek that reveal its character beyond the obvious sightseeing stops. It’s a city best experienced slowly, one that tells its story through architecture, culture, and the gentle rhythm of local life.
Explore Osijek’s Old Town (Tvrđa Fortress)
If you want to understand Osijek, begin at Tvrđa, the city’s historic old town. This 18th-century Baroque fortress is one of the best-preserved in Central Europe. Its cobblestone streets, arcaded squares, and ornate facades speak to the city’s Austro-Hungarian past.
At the heart of Tvrđa is Trg Svetog Trojstva, or Holy Trinity Square — a beautiful Baroque plaza dominated by a striking plague column from 1729. It’s one of the most photographed places in the city and a perfect starting point for exploring the fortress district.
One of the most atmospheric things to do in Osijek is a simple walk through Tvrđa at sunset, when warm light touches the old stones.
Riverside Walks Along the Drava River
The Drava River is at the heart of daily life in Osijek. A long promenade runs along its banks, connecting Tvrđa to the modern city center. Locals walk, run, and cycle here year-round, making it a perfect way to experience the city at its most authentic.
Whether you stroll in the early morning mist or during golden hour, the riverside has a peaceful charm. Several cafés overlook the water, making it an ideal place to pause, breathe, and simply take in the view.
City Center Landmarks: Cathedral and Ante Starčević Square
A short walk from the river leads to the modern center of Osijek, where two of its most recognizable landmarks stand. The Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, a neo-Gothic red-brick masterpiece built in 1898, towers over the skyline with one of the tallest spires in Croatia.
Just beside it lies Ante Starčević Square, the city’s main gathering spot, lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings. It’s a lively place to stop, people-watch, and feel Osijek’s everyday rhythm.
Croatian National Theatre
Only steps away from the square is the Croatian National Theatre, an elegant 19th-century building that reflects Osijek’s rich cultural heritage. Known for its classical façade and lively program of plays, operas, and concerts, it’s one of the oldest active theaters in Croatia. Even if you don’t attend a performance, its exterior alone is worth a visit, especially in the evening when it’s beautifully illuminated.
A Moment in History: The Red Fićo Monument
One of the most unique landmarks in Osijek is the Red Fićo monument — a small red Zastava 750 car that became a symbol of the early days of the Croatian War of Independence. The monument re-creates a historic moment from 1991 when a Yugoslav tank ran over a civilian car, an image that became iconic throughout the country.
Today, the sculpture stands as a powerful reminder of resilience and identity, located near the main bridge on the Drava River. Visiting it gives a more personal perspective on Osijek’s recent history.
Museums in Osijek: A Cultural Journey
For travelers who love culture and history, visiting museums is one of the most enriching things to do in Osijek. The city’s museums are small but surprisingly impressive.
- Museum of Slavonia – One of the oldest museums in Croatia, housing artifacts that tell the story of Osijek and the Slavonia region. Official website
- Gallery of Fine Arts – A space dedicated to local and international art, often hosting thoughtful temporary exhibitions. Official website
- Archaeological Museum Osijek – Located in Tvrđa, the Archaeological Museum Osijek showcases artifacts that trace the region’s rich history through centuries.
These museums offer a quiet and insightful way to understand the layers of Osijek’s identity, from its medieval foundations to modern artistic expression.
Osijek Zoo and Aquarium: A Family-Friendly Stop
Set on the right bank of the Drava River, Osijek Zoo and Aquarium is one of the largest in Croatia and the oldest in the country. It’s an easy walk or quick bridge crossing from the center.
The zoo is home to a wide range of animals and is especially known for its spacious, green layout. It’s a relaxed, uncrowded spot perfect for families, couples, or anyone seeking a break from the city.
Cafés, Markets and Local Life
One of the best things to do in Osijek is to embrace its café culture. Locals are never in a rush when it comes to coffee, and the city is filled with terraces where people linger over long conversations.
Nearby markets offer local produce, regional wines, and traditional products like honey and cured meats. Spending a morning here gives you a real sense of everyday life in Slavonia.
Day Trips and Nearby Hidden Gems
Osijek is also an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. A short drive or tour can take you to Kopački Rit Nature Park, a stunning wetland reserve and birdwatching paradise. Wine lovers can visit the Baranja wine region, known for its vineyards, cellars, and warm hospitality.
These excursions show a different side of Eastern Croatia, quieter and less touristic than the coastal regions, but equally captivating.
Practical Travel Tips for Osijek
The best time to visit Osijek is spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the city feels vibrant but not crowded.
Osijek is connected by train, bus, and a small airport, making it easy to reach from Zagreb, Budapest, or Belgrade. The city itself is walkable, with bike rentals available for those who prefer to explore on two wheels.
Safety is not a concern for most travelers, and English is widely spoken in cafés, hotels, and tourist sites.
Osijek may not be as famous as Croatia’s coastal cities, but that is part of its charm. Here, the pace is slower, the streets quieter, and the experiences more personal. Whether you’re wandering through Tvrđa, walking along the Drava, visiting museums, or enjoying coffee among locals, there’s a quiet beauty in the way the city reveals itself.
“Osijek isn’t a place to rush through. It’s a place to feel.”
Osijek has plenty to offer, yet its true charm is in the quiet moments you experience along the way. Read more about Croatia’s most beautiful cities and hidden gems in our travel section.
