Park dr. Franje Tuđmana Zagreb

Leaving the Main square behind you, head west, down Ilica street. Stay onto the left sidewalk, it's shady in the morning. Walk past the shops, banks, cafes, restaurants. Cross seven streets, only two of them with traffic lights. Walk for about 25 minutes until you reach a big, wide green area.

Now stop. Breathe. Look around you. This is the park I was telling you about. Take a blanket out of your backpack. Before you lay it down, check for dog poo! There's a lot around. Let your dog off the lead. Take your shoes and socks off. Lay down. There you go. Nice, right? Feel the sun on your skin. Listen to the children laughing. Watch the dogs running around freely. Sigh romantically at the sight of an elderly couple walking so slowly you could take a nap and they'd still be in front of you.

With the warm weather, this park comes to life. You'll run into children and dogs and tourists and locals relaxing and doing nothing at all times. Make sure you visit a free four-day beer festival with a line-up of popular bands in May and here are stargazing events organised by the Astronomy Club in summer (wait for a clear night). 

A word of warning though: Our daughter's learning to ride her bike here. At the speed she's learning, she'll be dangerous for another two years at least.