Zagreb has a mountain on its doorstep. Medvednica, a forested ridge that rises north of the city, is a nature park and the weekend playground of Zagreb, and its highest point, Sljeme, stands at just over a thousand metres. Since 2022 the easiest way up has been the Sljeme cable car, a modern gondola that runs about five kilometres from the lower station at Gračansko dolje, on the northern edge of the city, via an intermediate station at Brestovac to the top. The ride climbs 754 metres and takes around twenty minutes, with ten-seat cabins gliding above beech and fir forest and the city spreading out behind you. At the top, marked trails lead through the woods to viewpoints, mountain huts serving hearty food, and in winter the Sljeme ski slopes, which welcome beginners and families. Further along the ridge, the medieval fortress of Medvedgrad looks out over the city. On a clear day the views reach far across the plains of the Sava, and in winter Sljeme is often white while Zagreb below is just cold and grey. It is a wonderful half-day escape, and ideal for families or anyone who has had their fill of museums. Cabins have ski racks, and there is a large underground car park at the lower station.
Getting there: take tram 8 or 14 to Mihaljevac, then change to tram 15 to the end of the line, from where it is a short walk to the lower station. Buses also stop nearby. If you drive, the garage beneath the lower station has more than two hundred spaces and electric charging; payment is by card. The cable car is run by the city transport company ZET.
Timetable and closures: the 2026 summer timetable, from 21 March, ran from 10:00 on weekdays and 09:00 at weekends, with last departures at 18:30 from the bottom and 19:00 from the top. Winter hours can differ, so check the official site before you go. The cable car closes for monthly technical inspections and in very strong wind; on those days bus 140 from Mihaljevac to Sljeme is the alternative. Fares are moderate; Zagreb residents ride free.
Making the most of it: it is noticeably colder at the top, often by several degrees, so bring a warm layer, and proper shoes if you plan to walk. In the ski season, Sljeme has easy slopes and ski rental. During Advent, the area around the lower station is one of the city’s district Advent locations from 28 November 2026 to 7 January 2027. Allow half a day for the ride, a walk and a meal at a mountain hut.
What to expect
The experience
A gondola ride of about twenty minutes from the city edge to the summit of Medvednica, then forest trails, viewpoints, mountain huts and, in winter, ski slopes.
Best time
A clear, crisp day in autumn or winter for the views, or after snowfall for a winter wonderland.
How long
Half a day including the tram, the ride, a walk and a meal.
Tips
Check the timetable and inspection days, bring a warm layer for the summit, and use bus 140 if the cable car is closed.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and nature lovers who want mountain air without leaving the city.
- Families
- Children love the gondola, and in winter the gentle slopes and snow make Sljeme a family favourite.
- Couples
- Ride up for a forest walk and a hearty lunch at a mountain hut, then watch the city lights on the way down.
- Pair with
- Mirogoj on the way back to the centre, or a quiet evening at Advent.
- Time needed
- Half a day.
Good questions
How long is the Sljeme cable car ride?+
The ride is about five kilometres and takes around twenty minutes. It climbs 754 metres from Gračansko dolje to the summit.
How do I get to the Sljeme cable car by public transport?+
Take tram 8 or 14 to Mihaljevac, then tram 15 to the end of the line. The lower station is a short walk away.
Is the Sljeme cable car open in winter?+
Yes, it runs all year, and cabins carry skis in the ski season. Winter hours can differ, and it closes for monthly inspections and strong wind.
What can you do at the top of Sljeme?+
You can walk forest trails, enjoy the views, eat at mountain huts and ski in winter. The medieval Medvedgrad fortress lies further along the ridge.
Is there parking at the Sljeme cable car?+
Yes, an underground garage at the lower station has more than two hundred spaces and electric charging. Payment is by card only.
