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Cinema

Most multiplex cinemas are located in shopping centers. One of the nicest things about going to the cinema in Croatia is that films are rarely, if ever, dubbed. Instead, they are shown in their original language with Croatian subtitles - a great opportunity to pick up a little Croatian! In addition to multiplex cinemas, there are also a few art cinemas and several outdoor cinemas that screen films throughout the summer.

Though some screenings are free (for example at outdoor summer theaters), prices for films at the cinema typically range from 19 to 36 kunas, depending on time of day and screening (i.e. regular vs. IMAX 3D).

• Art Kino Gric - A small art cinema that shows independent and international films and occasionally hosts film festivals. It also houses a popular café.
• Art Kino KIC - The Kulturno Informativni Centar regularly screens international, independent, and art films.
• CineStar - A multiplex cinema with locations at Avenue Mall, Branimir Centar, and Arena Centar
• Cineplexx - A multiplex cinema with locations at Kaptol Centar and City Center One
• Kino Europa - A historic cinema that hosts a number of film festivals throughout the year. It's also a popular bar and café.
• Kino Tuškanac - Kino Tuškanac hosts a program of classic, art, independent, and international films curated by the Croatian Film Club
• Ljetno Kino Gradec - Free, open-air film screenings every evening from July to September in Zagreb's beautiful Upper Town. There's even a full-service bar and café.

Nightclubs

There are two main hubs for nightlife in Zagreb: in the city center around the main square, and at Lake Jarun. Most of the major clubs are located at one of these two locations, though there are a few other notable bars and clubs elsewhere in the city. Each club attracts a certain clientele - but it's worth trying a few clubs on for size to find out which suits you best. Typically the newest bar or club is the hottest, but after a few weeks, the novelty wears off and people return to their old favorites.

"Going out" in Zagreb usually unfolds over several hours. First, you might meet for a drink at a favorite bar. After a few rounds, you might migrate to another bar, or if it's late enough, head to a club for some dancing.

Zagreb is pretty laid-back, and it's generally not too difficult to gain entry, but there are always exceptions. To avoid any setbacks, keep these few tips in mind.

• If it's a special event or a club opening, determine if an RSVP is required. Sometimes it's as simple as joining a Facebook event page, but if you don't RSVP or secure an invitation when one is required, you may be turned away at the door.
• Know the style of the club you are going to and dress for it. People in Zagreb make an effort to look good when they go out. Jeans are acceptable almost anywhere, as long as you dress them up a bit. Some clubs will turn away guests wearing casual attire such as shorts and flip-flops.
• There might be a cover charge, so come prepared with cash. Many bars only accept cash for drinks, as well.

Bars and Clubs

There are many clubs in Zagreb and even more bars, but chances are you'll only ever visit a handful if you stick to a group of local friends who have already established their favorites. If you want to see what else is out there, you may have to explore on your own. Here are just a few nightlife hotspots to start you off.

• Aquarius - One of the oldest clubs on Lake Jarun, with two dance floors. You'll have to catch a cab here, or take a tram and walk.
• Cica - A hole in the wall bar on Tkalciceva ulica with a large rakija selection. A popular spot to start the night.
• Mansion - Another popular club on Lake Jarun.
• Maraschino - Just steps from the main square, another spot to kick off a night out.
• Mojo ­-Mojo boasts 60 different varieties of rakija. It's very reasonably priced and walking distance from the main square.
• Jabuka - This dingy club is a Zagreb institution - it's been around for decades. Nights spent dancing to cult hits from the 80s usually end with a sunrise stagger home.
• Kolaž - This tiny basement bar is great for a laid-back drink.
• Krivi put - Across the street from the Student Center, this bar is packed almost any time of day. Huge patio.
• Kvart - There's often some sort of themed party, DJ set, or live act set to perform at Kvart, located at a former slaughterhouse.
• Pepermint - Right on Ilica, a short walk from the main square, Pepermint is always busy. Each day of the week is dedicated to a different type of music.
• Purgeraj - This popular bar and club in Ribnjak Park hosts live acts and DJs. Thursdays are reserved for indie pop.
• Rush - Not far from the main square, Rush is the most popular gay club in Zagreb.
• Sedmica - A small and smoky bar with a unique interior. Popular with the creative set.
• Tvornica kulture -  "Factory of culture" is a popular spot for live shows and concerts.
• Vintage Industrial Bar - This massive bar on Savska also schedules regular live shows. It's new in town, so it's always packed.