Zagreb’s economy is quickly recovering after years of being in the dumps following occupation by foreign governments and the 1991 war. The country has not yet been admitted to the European Union, so E.U. countries have not yet made many investments in retail in Zagreb or elsewhere in the country, though that is slowly changing. Except for the action at Dolac Market, shopping isn’t very exciting in Zagreb, and serious bargain hunters will be disappointed in the prices and what’s available, especially in clothing. The number of stores that sell good quality or even designer garb is increasing, but as a rule, clothing here is either imported and very expensive, or very cheap, depending on its country of origin. However, shopping malls anchored by huge stores that resemble Super K-Marts are popping up all over town and attracting big crowds. There are also a few places that sell apparel and other items worth checking out.

Croatians love to shop, and large, Western-style malls are springing up all over Zagreb. Avenue Mall at Avenija Dubrovnik 16 is Zagreb’s newest shopping mecca. It’s a mix of upscale and moderately priced stores with several coffee bars and dining spots sprinkled in. Kaptol Center on Nova Ves in Gornji Grad houses upscale retailers; a multiplex cinema; and an excellent assortment of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Importanne runs two malls, one under the park across the street from the main train station, and another at Iblerov Trg just west of the city center. Branimir Center on Branimir just east of the train station also has a multiplex plus several decent restaurants, in addition to shops and the Arcotel Allegra Hotel. King Cross at Jankomir and City Center southwest of Zagreb are the closest things to an American mall. Each has nearly 100 stores that include brand-name retailers like Benetton, Sisley, and Esprit, plus electronics, sporting goods, and home stores. There are also lots of cafes and a couple of huge supermarkets there.