Zagreb’s Stara Vlaška to undergo major transformation with new pedestrian zone

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

ZAGREB, 30 July 2026 – One of Zagreb’s historic streets is set for a major transformation after the city approved a contractor for the permanent redevelopment of Stara Vlaška Street, with works expected to begin by September and finish within three months.

The project aims to give the pedestrian zone a completely new appearance by the end of the year, following an urban and architectural competition that attracted 23 design proposals. The winning concept, created by Studio Atmosfera, was selected for combining modern functionality with respect for the area’s historic character.

Zagreb Mayor Tomislav Tomašević said the redevelopment follows the city’s earlier decision to transform Stara Vlaška, Mala Martićeva and Masarykova streets into pedestrian areas.

“After turning these streets into pedestrian zones, we announced that their permanent and comprehensive renovation would follow. We are now entering that phase for Stara Vlaška, based on the solution selected through the architectural competition,” Tomašević said.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The renovation will cover 4,050 square metres of Stara Vlaška Street and part of Jurja Branjuga Street. The existing roadway will be converted into a pedestrian-friendly surface, with asphalt replaced by stone paving and kerbs removed to create a unified shared space for pedestrians and vehicles.

The investment is estimated at €3.4 million excluding VAT.

The redesigned area will include more greenery, new urban furniture, improved lighting and updated traffic solutions aimed at increasing pedestrian safety.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

According to Deputy Mayor Luka Korlaet, the goal is to create a space where people will want to spend time rather than simply pass through.

The winning design divides the area into three main zones: a promenade, a square and a park. The southern section will focus on pedestrians and open space suitable for occasional events such as festivals, markets and fairs. The central section will include greenery, seating areas and spaces for socialising and recreation, while the northern section will be designed for hospitality businesses and shops.

(Photo: Grad Zagreb)

The wider project also includes improvements to parts of Palmotićeva Street and Vlaška Street between Palmotićeva and Draškovićeva streets.

Works will include the construction of a new water supply pipeline in Branjugova Street, improved electricity connections for public events, modernisation of public lighting and decorative illumination of the monument to Croatian writer August Šenoa.

Existing lighting will be replaced with more energy-efficient systems, while additional decorative and reflector lighting will highlight pedestrian areas and green spaces.

The project also includes improved drainage systems to collect rainwater and connect them to the existing drainage network, as well as replacement of existing asphalt surfaces with stone paving.

At the same time, Zagreb is continuing work on traffic improvements around the area, including the installation of new traffic lights in Branjugova Street to better connect pedestrian zones and improve safety.

The new traffic system will be integrated into Zagreb’s smart traffic management network, helping optimise vehicle flow while prioritising pedestrian movement.