I imagine that the name "železni franceki" means little to the people who were not born and raised in Zagreb. So let me explain. The nickname "železni franceki" (Iron Francek) refers to the old water pumps that are scattered all around the city with quite a few of them in the Downtown area. Dating back to the late 19th century, those pumps were set at the back of households which didn't have aqueducts. These public pumps are one of the oldest, but also one of the most unrecognizable landmarks of the city. As time passed, the pumps started becoming unneeded and became forgotten.
In order to prevent the pumps from sinking into eternal oblivion, a crew of five creative individuals, gathered under name Pimp my Pump, started to paint the pumps, giving them new multicolored identities. Each pump is colored with the story behind it.
And the best thing is that you can drink nice, cold, refreshing water from these pumps. So, when you take a walk around downtown on a hot summer day, make sure you bring an empty bottle to fill the water straight from one of the funny iron pumps that you will probably find on the way.
Find your way with 135 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Ribice i Tri Točkice Zagreb makes some of the best value-for-money seafood in the city. It's my first choice to eat fish, and I love the joyous ambience.
by
Zagreb's Museum of Contemporary Art took many years to be completed, but it's well worth it. I come here to rediscover classics or catch cultural events.
by
Petras Atelier in central Zagreb is based on the artworks by a creative mother-daughter duo. I come here for original gifts though, I like just browsing!
by
Kavana Lav Zagreb is situated in a former palace and still has a gallery. Almost never crowded, together with its balcony it's peaceful & quiet...
by
The food is delicious - from hearty seasonal soups and crispy fried potatoes to their staple Wiener Tafelspitz, everything is fresh and very tasty.
by
Breadclub is an artisanal bakery in Zagreb. It sounds like an exaggeration, but believe me, everything is delicious here - it's always hard to choose...
by
Program Bar in Zagreb has superb coffee and some offbeat decoration. This cafe has become one of my favorites for long, relaxing sessions with friends...
by
Hotel Jägerhorn's Cafe in Zagreb is located in a small passage, near the main square. It has a beautiful terrace with great view & delicious coffee!
by
"Ribice kod Mimice" in Zagreb is a local favorite seafood restaurant that's existed since 1945! People love it because everything still tastes the same...
by
"ZKM Theater", or Zagreb's Youth Theater, is one of my favorite theaters because of its contemporary approach, critical attitude and daring performances...
by
"Express Bar" feels like a visit to your best girlfriend in Zagreb, who also happens to have an exquisite taste in home decor and really makes an effort...
by
135 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 135 Insider Tips