Samobor works as a half-day trip from Zagreb year-round, but some times suit it better than others.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons for hiking in the Žumberak hills — temperatures are mild, the forest is at its most colourful, and the trails are uncrowded on weekdays. Summer brings more day-trippers, especially at weekends, and the square can feel busy in July and August, but the park hikes are still enjoyable in the early morning.
The highlight of the calendar is the Samobor Carnival (Fašnik), held in the weeks before Lent in February or March. One of the oldest and most famous carnival traditions in Croatia, it draws large crowds for masked processions, music, and street food. Book transport and accommodation in advance if you plan to visit during Fašnik.
Winter is quiet but has its own charm — the square is peaceful, kremšnita tastes even better in the cold, and the hills around town get occasional light snow.